Repairs, Maintenance Carpet Replacement

[ChrisK]

We lived in an apartment for 2 years and the carpet was in bad shape when we moved in. I don't know how old the carpet was when we moved in but it definitely wasn't new. The complex took out deposit and sent us a bill for over $2000 for replacing the carpet after we moved out. My question is how many years can they leave the carpet in a place before they have to replace it and if it has to be replaced after it is at least 3 years old wouldn't that full under normal wear and tear. There were stains on it when we moved in ever though it was just steam cleaned. We had it steam clean twice while we lived there and one of those times was right before we move out. Every time it was cleaned the stains came right back.

 

[Betty3]

You should not be responsible for normal wear & tear - landlord generally is.

 

[mightymoose]

If you want your deposit back you are going to have to bring an action against the landlord.
The landlord will have to prove damages and that it is not normal wear and tear.

If you don't sue the landlord you won't see your deposit.

If you refuse to pay the bill then the landlord's option is to bring an action against you. In doing so the landlord will still have to prove damages and you can countersue for your deposit, or a portion of it.

 

[Gail_in_Georgia]

The rule (i.e., via the IRS) for the life of a carpet in a rental situation is typically 5 years.

Gail