Rental property damage is a serious issue. If you are a landlord, it can result in costly repairs and cause harm to your property and its value.
Additionally, if the damage is severe, it can make the property unsafe to live in, which causes inconvenience and disruption to the tenants.
Continue reading to discover what you can do if your tenant damages your rental property.
But First, Is the Landlord Responsible for Property Damage Caused by Tenants?
Landlords in Malaysia are generally responsible for property damage caused by tenants. The extent of this responsibility, however, depends on the specific circumstances and the terms of the lease agreement.
In most cases, landlords are responsible for the repairs to the property that are necessary due to normal wear and tear. Examples include worn or faded carpets and small scuffs on walls from door handles.
On the other hand, if the damage was caused by the tenant’s negligence or intentional actions, the tenant may be responsible for paying for the repairs.
It’s important for tenants and landlords to review the terms of their tenancy agreement and clearly understand their responsibilities in the event of property damage.
If there is any confusion or dispute, it may be necessary to seek legal advice to determine who is responsible for paying for the repairs.
Read More: Can Landlords Rent Room Easier Now Than Ever Before?
Steps to Take If A Tenant Damages Your Rental Property
1. Assess the Damage
First, inspect the property to determine the extent of the property damage along with the cost of repairs.
Suppose the occupant causes minor damage to your property. In that case, the landlord can use a portion of the security deposit paid by the tenant to pay for the repairs.
But, if the damage looks serious, such as a hole in the floor, getting your tenant to pay for the repairs becomes more complicated.
It is recommended to engage a building contractor to check the damages and ask for a repair quotation.
2. Notify the Tenant
The tenant must be notified of the damage and the estimated cost of repairs.
If the renter thinks the repair costs are too high, they are allowed to hire their own contractor.
Moreover, if the property damage is so severe that the house is no longer habitable until it is repaired, the landlord can seek compensation for loss of rental income.
In some cases, the tenant may also be evicted. This happens when the tenant is repeatedly responsible for damaging the property.
Read More: Do’s & Don’t’s Every Landlord in Malaysia Should Know.
The Importance of Landlord Insurance in Malaysia
Landlord insurance is a valuable investment for landlords in Malaysia. It can protect landlords from financial losses that can occur from property damage, liability claims, and other risks.
However, it is important that landlords carefully review their options and choose an insurance policy that meets their specific needs and budget.
Securing Your Property with Rumah-i
In conclusion, it’s essential for landlords and tenants to take steps to prevent property damage and to address it promptly when it does occur.
Addressing damage quickly can help to minimise its impact and avoid disputes between the landlord and tenant.
Rumah-i is a prominent rental services company in Malaysia. Our property management package includes home makeovers, rental management and more.
We also carry out tenant screening using RAM Credit Information (RAMCI) to help landlords find responsible tenants who will respect and care for their property.
To start listing your properties on Rumah-i, download our Home Renting App on Google Play or the App Store today!
