What a Bad Tenant Turnover Taught Me
TLDRRoss’s team recorded a badly damaged rental after a tenant left. His lesson was to fix the safety issues first and know that nicer finishes may still get damaged.
Table of Contents
What the Walkthrough Showed
The video showed walls covered with crayons and other damage. Ross said the state of the home showed little care. The main-room floors had been replaced before the tenant moved in. He expected much of the floor and paint work to be done again.
He also saw gaps where the shower surround met the tub. Water can enter those gaps and cause a larger problem over time, mainly when no one reports it.
One Issue, Not a Rule for Every HomeThe source showed one gap where water could enter. It did not set a repair rule, fixed budget, cash reserve, or court outcome.
Why Spending More Was Not Better Here
Ross said the prior work cost about $15,000 to $20,000. He did not think spending $40,000 would have brought a different type of tenant or stopped this damage in that area. If the same damage ruined the added finishes, the extra cost would be lost.
That was not an argument for neglect. It was a reason to match finish costs to the house and area.
The Line Ross Would Not Cross
Ross drew a clear safety line. He would not ignore fire alarms, broken glass, bedroom windows that would not open, or other hazards. Those core safety items still had to be fixed.
After that basic work, he asked if a rental always needs the same finishes an owner would choose for a personal home.
FAQ
Did Ross say every tenant damages a property this way?
No. The lesson reacted to one turnover video.
Did he give an exact repair bill for this turnover?
No. He gave the cost of the prior work and said some work would need to be done again. He did not give a final bill for this turn.
What was the water warning?
He saw gaps around the tub and shower surround and warned that unnoticed water entry over time can become serious damage.