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I am in California (and i just purchased my first rental property) and my tenant of 8 years just moved out. The unit has a bad animal smell. I am replacing the carpets because of the age but I am wondering if I can with hold any of the security deposit because of the animal smell? I may have been able to clean and restrecth carpet and get another year or two out of it, but the animal smell makes that impossible. Any thoughts?

Dianna K, CA on Tuesday, November 14, 2017

RE: Security Deposit

The security deposit is for damages and in some states back rent. It is not for normal wear and tear. I would look up or define normal wear and tear in your state and when you allow pets.

Posted by Adrien l, PA on Friday, December 1, 2017

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