Updating post from Reddit.
Just hoping to get a sense check before a deposit deduction.
How long would you expect furniture - tables, chairs, drawers, but in my case specifically a bed frame - to last for the purposes of apportionment?
In my case it's 2.7 years old, wooden, from Next, and damaged by dragging it across the carpet so that the integral drawer will no longer go on its runners. The lodger didn't ask for help or permission to move it like that.
I've consulted this guide but it mentions things like carpets and white goods, but not furniture. https://www.tenancydepositscheme.com/app/uploads/2024/10/A_Guide_to_product_lifespans_NRLA.pdf
I’ll need more context.
Is this a formal/ informal lodger? Is there a deposit? Was the furniture their sole use ie in their locked room or in common space?
To be frank, a 3 year old bit of flat pack furniture is likely a very nominal value. Added to the nominal damage caused, I’m inclined to say it’s not worth the hassle chasing.
Formal lodger, in their bedroom, not a communal space, with a deposit paid. They chose to leave - I didn't evict.
The bed's replacement cost is £750 - it wasn't cheap, and is part of a matching set.
I wasn't initially going to claim for it, but they're being fairly difficult about returning the keys so I could do with a bit of leverage.
Thanks, I understand the formula, but the question is what the expected lifespan of a bed frame would be
Mb, how long would it last you if you owned it? Don’t see why it should be any different for a tenant
10 years?
If it's wooden you can repair it easily.
Unfortunately I've tried and haven't been able to.
That's a skill issue. Maybe hire a handyman if you can't do it yourself?
Anyway, the tenancy laws don't really apply to lodgers.
Deduct the cost of hiring someone to repair it from their deposit, return the balance, change the locks, and tell them to jog on.
Their legal recourse would be to take you to small claims court.
Pay a handyman to repair.
Deduct costs from deposit.
Pretty simple really…
If it's beyond repair, claim from the deposit. If they want to query it, send them evidence.
Some people live in property for 20 years and they are immaculate. You may have relatives like this. I would take that view point with regards wear and tear. Mostly it damages as in your situation or poor cleaning and looking after things.
You’re already losing if you go to dispute because the rules don’t want to fully compensate. I would agree the point that your rental is to an excellent standard and you aim to achieve the best rents and that requires best condition. Meaning that full replacement of the item and your expectation upon its purchase and cost was that it would last 20 years.