I have rented for a house for the last 3.5 years and am getting ready to move out.  While living at the rental property the front face of the microwave broke off.  Unfortunately it's an integrated microwave built into the cabinetry, so it's not easy to replace.  This was NOT a case of abuse, it happened during routine use.

The microwave functions fine (we told the rental agency about it back when it happened a year or two ago) but looks pretty funky.  

Also, my kids put a number on the carpet in one of the bedrooms.  I have a carpet cleaner coming tomorrow but it wouldn't shock me if the management company still wants the carpet replaced.  

What are the rules in the state of WA for tenants regarding depreciation / prorating security deposits?  Obviously I'm willing to pay my fair and proper share as a responsible renter.  I'm not trying to be a weasel scumbag to the landlord/management company but I would like to know what my rights are in this process.

Thanks!

Start here.  http://www.atg.wa.gov/Landlord-Tenant.aspx#.VOK4yk10y70

 

Depreciation applies to federal taxation, basically a way for a person or business to account for the use a capital asset over time, it's useful life.  The primary requirement is ownership of the asset.  You don't own the asset so you can't  claim depreciation.  

Stuff breaks, so if there is a maintenance issue with the property or appliances, let the landlord know immediately.  Waiting until the end is pretty much too late.  

Was there a move-in / move out checklist completed when you moved in?   That might be your only saving grace.  If you were my tenant, and I have rentals, you would likely not be getting a deposit back.  Look at your contract for the rate of hourly labor.  Mine is $50/hr.  

Communication with your landlord is key to limiting your liability.

Thanks for your input as a homeowner.  Reviewing my emails I find an email to the management company from October of 2012 referencing the broken face of the  microwave in an email.

I also see an email from August 2013 referencing the carpet.  There is essentially no transition from the wood floor in the hallway leading in to the carpet in the kids bedroom.  The carpet is fairly frayed/beat up in that area.  I noted that there was the potential for an issue back in 2013 and asked for a repair to be made.  The management company stated that they would contact the homeowner but I never heard anything else.  Predictably, the carpet is frayed at the entrance into the room and is a sticking point now on moveout.  There are also some soils in the carpet, but I believe they will come out with a professional steam cleaning.

Again, I'm not trying to screw over the property owner but I did my part in notifying the management company early about issues and am trying to determine what is a fair portion of repairs to pay for.

Thanks for the link.  I looked around but didn't see anything that specifically addressed my issue.

Sounds like the level of communication was good.  Again, your best bet is the move-in/move-out inspection form.  Best of luck.