Can a Landlord Charge for Broken Blinds?

Blinds break and wear out over time. If damage is from ordinary use or the blinds are old, the landlord often can't justify charging full replacement cost.

When the charge can be legitimate

• Blinds are visibly broken from impact or misuse
• Missing parts caused by tenant actions (slats removed/damaged)
• Pet chewing damage beyond normal wear

Red flags

• Charging full replacement for old blinds with no age info
• Replacing every blind when only one is damaged
• No photos or vague "window covering" charges

What to ask for

• Photos showing the damaged blinds and which windows
• Replacement invoice and unit/room counts
• Brand/model or comparable pricing used for the replacement

How to dispute

1. Dispute replacement scope (one blind vs all blinds).
2. Dispute amount by requesting depreciation/remaining life when applicable.
3. Ask for proof of damage and purchase details.

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