What can I do if my tenant damaged the property?

Author

MyProperty

If you asked for a deposit, you can use the money to repair damages attributed to the tenant beyond normal wear and tear when the tenant moves out. Be sure to follow these steps:

When your tenant moves in, inspect the property together and list, in writing, any existing defects - both should sign this and it must be attached to the lease agreement.
When your tenant moves out, inspect the property together again, ideally no earlier than three days before the tenant moves out.
Compare the new list of defects with the list you made earlier.
You may give the tenant a chance to do the repairs personally, or you can agree that you will do it. Hold on to receipts for repairs paid for out of the deposit. Your former tenant has a right to see them.

If repairs cost less than the deposit plus the interest accrued, you will have to reimburse your former tenant with the difference.

Contact the Rental Housing Tribunal if you have problems.

Rental Property News

Legal

Maximising tax deductions on rental properties: A guide for landlords

16 Oct 2024

Renting out your property can be a rewarding way to generate extra income, but did you know it also comes with tax obligations? As a landlord in South Africa, you're required to report your rental income to SARS, which can eat into your profits. Fortunately, there are smart ways to reduce your tax liability and keep more of what you earn.

Market & Opinion

TPN report reveals rising residential vacancies amid declining demand

07 Oct 2024

Residential vacancy rates have increased across all provinces and rental value bands, according to TPN’s latest Residential Vacancy Survey Report. The report shows a significant rise in vacancies, jumping from 4.42% in the first quarter to 6.72% in the second quarter of 2024.

Legal

Understanding levy increases: A guide for Sectional Titles

27 Sep 2024

Levy increases are an essential aspect of property ownership in sectional title schemes. As property owners within these complexes, the responsibility of maintaining, managing, and repairing common property falls on the body corporate—the collective of unit owners. The funds necessary for these responsibilities are generated through levies, which are typically adjusted annually. These adjustments are usually decided at the annual general meeting (AGM) of the complex.

Legal

The importance of entry and exit inspections in lease agreements

17 Sep 2024

Often overlooked but still significant is the entry and exit inspection, which serves as a safeguard to prevent disputes and ensure the property’s condition is accurately recorded. These inspections, if done properly, protect both the tenant and landlord by providing a transparent record of the property's condition at the beginning and end of a tenancy.