How to estimate/itemize charges and deduct from security deposit (Virginia) (tenants, house)

[July2012]

Does anyone have a reference on this?
I can easily provide a receipt for damaged blinds I had to replace but how to I estimate cost/labor for left behind trash or a dirty stove or fridge that the tenants failed to clean?

I also found marijuana in the home while showing the home to perspective tenants. It was disposed of before they moved out but can I fine them for this?

Thanks

[JanND]

Originally Posted by July2012

Does anyone have a reference on this?
I can easily provide a receipt for damaged blinds I had to replace but how to I estimate cost/labor for left behind trash or a dirty stove or fridge that the tenants failed to clean?

I also found marijuana in the home while showing the home to perspective tenants. It was disposed of before they moved out but can I fine them for this?

Thanks

You check w/ a cleaning service for a standard rate, appliances should be easy to itemize. You then have itemized list along w/ applicable refund. The other, "found" item you would have had to call the cops and just turn em in. Don't know how you would justify charging them for something that is illegal, I'd just leave that alone. You should have reported it then, like I've heard that cleaning services and carpet cleaning companies do.

[July2012]

Yeah we didn't report them at the time because they were getting behind on rent and we just wanted them paid in full and out of the house ASAP.

[CptnRn]

Originally Posted by July2012

Does anyone have a reference on this?
I can easily provide a receipt for damaged blinds I had to replace but how to I estimate cost/labor for left behind trash or a dirty stove or fridge that the tenants failed to clean?

I also found marijuana in the home while showing the home to perspective tenants. It was disposed of before they moved out but can I fine them for this?

Thanks

No you have no authority to fine them.

To itemize the damages just do a reasonable estimate of how long it will take you or someone you hire to do the cleaning, apply a reasonable hourly rate to it and use those numbers. You do not have to get receipts or bids for everything when producing your itemization. As long as it is reasonable, not excessive or exaggerated, the courts will accept it should it ever come to that.

Read what your state laws say here if you have not already. State Landlord Tenant Laws

Virginia has some very specific requirements regarding interest paid on security deposits, withholding the deposit for utility payments, etc. that you should be familiar with.