The source of moisture and the sequence of reports, inspections, repairs, and remediation can help distinguish a property condition from tenant-caused damage.
Facts that may support the charge
- There's evidence tenant actions caused water intrusion (case-specific)
- Tenant failed to report an active leak causing preventable damage (case-specific)
- Damage is tied to a specific tenant-caused incident and documented
Questions and warning signs
- No report identifying the source of water intrusion
- Charges include building repairs unrelated to the unit's condition
- No photos, no timeline, and no causation explanation
What to ask for
- Inspection reports identifying source and timeline of damage
- Photos and remediation invoices describing what was done
- Any prior maintenance history for the affected area
How to review or dispute it
- Request evidence identifying the source and timeline.
- Dispute any charges not tied to tenant-caused actions.
- Ask for itemization separating remediation from unrelated repairs.
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 unsupported totals and keep the dispute focused on causation and records.