More than wear and tear
Normal wear and tear is a cost of renting. Some tenants leave behind something different: saturated pet urine in carpet and subfloor, cigarette or marijuana smoke in every surface, hoarding conditions, bodily fluids, needles, or drug residue. These need remediation before a unit can be safely re-rented, and landlords need documentation to support deposit deductions or damage claims.
Common tenant contamination
- Pet urine and feces, often in carpet, pad, subfloor and baseboards
- Heavy smoke residue on walls, ceilings, cabinets and HVAC
- Hoarding, with trash, spoiled food and pest activity
- Bodily fluids and biohazards
- Drug residue from use or manufacturing
- Mold from tenant-caused moisture problems
How the work is done
- Document conditions with photos before work starts.
- Identify the scope. Which materials are cleaned and which must be removed.
- Remove contaminated carpet, pad, and other materials that can't be saved.
- Clean and treat subfloor, walls and surfaces, and seal where appropriate.
- Address the HVAC system for smoke, pet dander or drug residue.
- Deodorize after source removal.
- Provide a written scope and photos for deposit accounting, insurance or small claims.
Deposit accounting
Your state sets the rules on what may be deducted from a security deposit and how to itemize. Our documentation describes conditions and work performed. How you apply it is up to you and your legal advisor.
Common questions
Is smoke residue removal worth it, or should we just paint?
Painting over heavy smoke residue usually fails: nicotine bleeds through and odor returns. Cleaning and sealing first is needed.
Can you test for drug residue?
Yes. Sampling can be arranged when you suspect drug use or manufacturing.
Do you work with property management companies?
Yes, including portfolio pricing for recurring turnovers.