No move in checklist & landlord trying to blame me?

Question

My landlord wants his 20 year old carpet replaced and is too cheap to spend money on anything so he is trying to blame me for it needing to be replaced. I am getting it professionally cleaned but it was 17 years old when I moved in!

Answer 1

Even if you caused signifigant damage to the carpet, it's useful life expectancy is over and gone.

You can only be held liable for the depreciated value of the carpet. After 17-20 years, it's depreciated value is zero, so you owe nothing.

If the landlord attempts to make any deduction from your deposit because of the carpet, dispute them in writing via certified mail, return receipt requested. Also, in the letter, demand the return of that portion of your security deposit within 10 days from receipt of your letter.

State the reason that you are disputing the charges. The carpet has no depreciated value after 17-20 years and has no useful life expectancy left at this point.

If the landlord fails to return the $$$, file in Small Claims courts. The cost to file is fairly low and no attorneys are needed. If you win, the court will order the landlord to pay the filing fee in the judgment.

Answer 2

Unless you have actually done soemthing to it like dropped the iron on it or spilt bleach on dark carpet and remove the color or torn it then you cannot be made to replce the carpet. It comes under wear and tear and you would think after 17 - 20 years it would of been changed a long time ago.... ewwww to think whats growing in it. He is responsible he is the LANDLORD its his property.

Goodluck

Answer 3

Always always always do a move-in walk through with the landlord.  If they won't, then write a letter (and keep a copy) & mail by Certified Mail with return receipt, outlining the condition of the apartment when you moved in.  Do this as soon as possible after the move in day.  List everything just to CYA.