Can a Landlord Charge for Air Filters?

Replacing air filters is often normal property maintenance. A landlord may try to charge for it as a move-out cost, but disputes turn on whether it's routine upkeep versus tenant-caused neglect supported by proof.

When the charge can be legitimate

• Lease clearly assigns filter replacement to tenant and it was neglected
• There's evidence neglect caused additional issues (case-specific)
• The charge reflects actual cost and is documented

Red flags

• Charging for routine maintenance items that landlords replace between tenants anyway
• No lease clause showing tenant responsibility
• Inflated charge for a low-cost item without a receipt

What to ask for

• Lease clause assigning filter responsibility
• Receipt for filter(s) and date of replacement
• Any inspection notes showing neglect or related issues

How to dispute

1. Confirm whether the lease actually makes filters your responsibility.
2. Request receipts and a breakdown of what was replaced.
3. Dispute routine maintenance billed as tenant damage.

Start with the dispute template, then escalate to a demand letter if the landlord won't correct it.