Dallas Property Management Blog

When Should A Tenant Lose Their Security Deposit?
Dallas property management security deposit

Property management in Dallas can be a very worthwhile venture, but it also comes with a lot of risks. As a Dallas rental property owner, you most likely charge all new tenants a security deposit because you know how frustrating it can be when a tenant damages your property. There are many ways a tenant can lose their security deposit. Certain types of abuses or offenses, that the tenant may be responsible for, could cause them to forfeit all or part of their security deposit upon leaving the property. Here are several reasons why you would be able to keep a tenant’s security deposit:

  1. The rental property is damaged beyond normal wear and tear from everyday usage. If the property was furnished, the furniture should be returned with minimal wear and tear. There should not be large holes ripped in the upholstery, burn marks or large uncleanable stains on the carpet, or obvious scrapes, dents, or cuts that leave certain surfaces unusable. The structure of the apartment, the walls, and the floors must be intact.
  2. If you, as the property owner, have to shell out large sums of money to remove furniture left behind or to clean floors, windows, walls, or carpet due to excessive abuse, that too can lead to the tenant losing their deposit.
  3. Lease violations could also lead to you keeping the deposit. For example, if a tenant is conducting an illegal business, or any other business not allowed, you can keep their deposit. Some examples of lease violations that may allow you to keep a tenant’s deposit are:
    • Noise violations
    • Having pets that are not allowed
    • Long-term guests not permitted by your lease
    • Unauthorized decorations or renovations to the property
    • Regular parking violations
    • Consistent unsanitary conditions
  4. Unpaid rent can lead to eviction, and if the full amount is not paid, the security deposit can be withheld.

The lease should spell out what is expected of the tenant. You should make it clear that if they fail to follow the lease’s guidelines, they should expect that you will require compensation in the form of their security deposit. You may feel the need to explain to the tenant that their deposit is required in case they fail to pay the rent in a timely manner or don’t keep the rental unit in good condition.

At Specialized Property Management Dallas, our professional and friendly property managers act as the middle man between you and your tenants to make sure that everyone stays happy. We make sure that you have tenants that pay rent and take good care of your property. For more information, call us at 214-233-7572 or contact us online.

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