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Can a Landlord Charge for Cabinet or Drawer Damage?

Review cabinet or drawer charges using cause, prior condition, repairability, replacement scope, parts, labor, and applicable law.

1 min readUpdated August 2026

Reviewed: 2026-08-11

How sources are checked →

Review whether cabinet or drawer hardware was damaged or worn, what repair was needed, the prior condition, and the documented cost under the applicable rule.

Facts that may support the charge

  • Broken doors/hinges from force or misuse
  • Missing hardware due to tenant removal
  • Damage requiring replacement rather than simple adjustment

Questions and warning signs

  • Charging for "tightening/adjusting" as a tenant damage item
  • No photos or repair description
  • Replacing entire cabinet units for minor hardware issues

What to ask for

  • Photos showing damage and missing parts
  • Repair invoice and parts list (hinges/slides/handles)
  • Explanation of why replacement (not repair) was necessary

How to review or dispute it

  1. Request photos and the specific part replaced.
  2. Dispute replacement scope if repair/adjustment is sufficient.
  3. Ask for itemized parts/labor costs.

If you want to challenge the charge in writing, customize the dispute template. Use a full demand letter when you are ready to request repayment by a specific date.

Tip: Use the Deduction Checker to review the amount and record which supporting documents are missing.

Next step

Choose the next step that fits your situation. You can keep researching for free or prepare a personalized letter when you are ready.