Tenant Landlord Dispute Resolution

Summary

The tenant is facing a dispute with the landlord over charges for repairs in New Hampshire. The landlord is claiming the tenant owes money for carpet removal and replacement, and wall painting. The tenant lived in the property for 6 years with 4 other people. The landlord did not provide an itemized list of repairs and their costs, and did not return the security deposit. The tenant was advised to review the lease agreement to understand their rights and responsibilities.

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Landlord claiming I owe them a large amount of money for repairs.
What state are you located in, ****? Different states have different laws regarding landlord-tenant responsibilities for repairs.
New Hampshire
What type of repairs is your landlord claiming you owe money for?

In New Hampshire, landlords are generally responsible for maintaining the property, but tenants may be liable for damages they cause.
Carpet removal and replacement, wall painting. These are things that are done when someone moves out. They are charging me $*,* for this
Did you cause any damage to the carpet or walls that goes beyond normal wear and tear?

In New Hampshire, landlords can only charge for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
We lived there for 6 years. There were * of us living in a * bedroom small apartment.
Did you take any pictures or have any evidence of the apartment's condition when you moved out? In New Hampshire, such evidence can be crucial in disputes over security deposits and damages.
No, didn't have time to as we were not given anytime to get our belongings out. We lost a lot of our stuff.
Did your landlord provide you with a written notice or explanation for the charges? In New Hampshire, landlords must provide a detailed list of damages within 30 days.
Yes
What does the written notice from your landlord state about the charges? In New Hampshire, landlords must provide a detailed list of damages and the cost of repairs.
It just shows the amount listed for "repairs".
Did your landlord provide a detailed list of damages and the cost of repairs within 30 days of your move-out date?
Yes
Did you receive an itemized list of the repairs and their costs from your landlord?
No
Did you have a security deposit with your landlord and if so, was it returned to you?
I requested them
Did your landlord return your security deposit? In New Hampshire, landlords are required to return the security deposit within 30 days of tenancy termination, minus any lawful deductions.
No
Did you receive any written communication from your landlord explaining why your security deposit was not returned?
No
Did you have a written lease agreement with your landlord and does it mention anything about repairs or damages?
Yes, we were also told by the repair men that the carpet is automatically replaced and the walls are painted before a new tenant moved in.
Does your lease agreement specifically state that the landlord is responsible for carpet replacement and wall painting upon tenant move-out?
Not sure
Can you check your lease agreement to confirm if it states that the landlord is responsible for carpet replacement and wall painting upon tenant move-out?
Yes, but it will take me awhile. We have been displaced so I have to search for the paperwork. I will have to get back to you.
That's fine, ****. Please take your time to find the lease agreement. It's crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities.
Okay. Thank you for your time.
Based on your situation, it's important to review your lease agreement. In New Hampshire, landlords can only charge for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
I will get back to you as says I can.
Sure, ****. Please take your time. Remember, in New Hampshire, landlords must return the security deposit within 30 days of tenancy termination, minus any lawful deductions.
Talk to you soon.
Sure, ****. Feel free to reach out whenever you're ready. Remember, understanding your lease agreement is crucial.