29 Landlords Document The Devastating Condition Of Houses Left By Nightmarish Tenants

Given the chance, Bored Panda reached out to one of the moderators from the r/Landlords community on Reddit. As a moderator and experienced landlord, "r2girls" is known for their knowledge on property management and insight into the landlord-tenant dynamic.

When asked about the most severe cases of property damage encountered on r/Landlords, r2girls remarked, "Some of the most extreme cases we've seen involve tenants causing massive damage to properties, ranging from tearing down drywall, leaving behind heaps of garbage, to even causing extensive water damage through neglect. It can be shocking to see the level of disarray some properties are left in."

Regarding preventive strategies to avoid problematic tenants, they advised, "Landlords on our subreddit often recommend thorough tenant screening, which includes credit checks, references, and sometimes even background checks. It's crucial to pay attention to red flags during the application process, such as a history of eviction, a poor credit history, or vague and unverifiable references."

The moderator also discussed the steps taken by landlords when tenants leave a property in a state of disarray. "It's typically handled by documenting everything, estimating repair costs, and then subtracting this from the security deposit. If the cost exceeds the deposit, landlords often have to consider small claims court or other legal avenues to recover the funds."

They also highlighted the supportive nature of the r/Landlords community. "Many of our members have been in similar situations and can provide guidance on next steps, legal recourse, and methods to better screen tenants in the future. We also recommend professional consultation for complex situations."

Emphasizing the importance of documentation, they added, "Having every agreement in writing is vital. As I've mentioned in previous comments, deals are only completed when they are fully executed, including any lease modifications. Having everything documented helps in avoiding misunderstandings and potential disputes down the line."

The moderator also advised Bored Panda that one should look into using platforms like Capital One for efficient account management, particularly for handling security deposits and other financial matters related to each property.

They also noted that when dealing with legal matters, "It's always wise to consult with a lawyer. They can guide you on how to properly document issues, obtain necessary information and advise on court proceedings if it ever comes to that."