Question 7

Cost of repairs for reasonable wear and tear may not be deducted from a tenant's security deposit.

Landlords are generally not allowed to deduct costs associated with reasonable wear and tear from a tenant's security deposit. This means that normal deterioration that occurs over time due to the use of the property cannot be charged to the tenant.

A) Unpaid rent.

This option is incorrect because landlords can deduct unpaid rent from a tenant's security deposit. If a tenant fails to pay rent, the landlord is entitled to recover those amounts from the deposit to cover the owed rent.

B) Cost of repairs for reasonable wear and tear.

This option is correct as landlords cannot deduct costs associated with reasonable wear and tear from a tenant's security deposit. Reasonable wear and tear refers to the natural deterioration of the property due to normal use, which the tenant should not be penalized for upon moving out.

C) Cost of repairing damage by pets.

This option is incorrect because costs related to repairing damage caused by pets can be deducted from a tenant's security deposit. If a tenant has a pet that causes more than normal wear and tear, the landlord can charge for those damages.

D) Cost of removing tenant's trash.

This option is incorrect as landlords can deduct costs associated with removing trash left behind by a tenant. If the tenant leaves garbage or personal items that require disposal, the landlord is entitled to recover those costs from the security deposit.

Conclusion

The correct answer is B, as landlords are prohibited from deducting costs for reasonable wear and tear from a tenant's security deposit, ensuring tenants are not unfairly charged for normal usage of the premises. In contrast, options A, C, and D all represent valid expenses that landlords can recover, highlighting the distinction between normal wear and specific damages or unpaid obligations.