Damage caused by the tenant

Landlord Discussion
1

Sorry if this is a rookie question but I assume it’s fair for tenants to pay for the damage caused by them?

So my tenant just emailed telling me one of the bedroom door frame was broken without going into a great deal of details apart from saying the door was a bit jammed and her husband tried to open it. She did say she is happy to pay for the repair and has found someone to do it.

On a separate note, this is a bit shocking to me as a wooden door frame doesn’t get broken easily! I sense there might be some violence involved. Am I over-thinking this? Not sure whether I shall just ask the female tenant but it might sound offensive to her if it’s not the case at all.

2

I would suggest to the tenant that you come over and have a look. You may find damage to other areas that you would need to be aware of. I’d also get my own people to do the work rather than someone the tenant comes up with.

3

I agree with David. Go & have a look.

I had a similar example recently, the tenants had forced the door open when the door handle jamned. Anyone with any DIY knowledge, would have known this is easily resolved with a screwdriver & pliers, but they didn’t have the knowledge, and panicked.

I paid for the repair.