Are landlords required to do a walk-through with the tenant?
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Are landlords required to do a walk-through with the tenant?
Landlord gave me permission to paint in the home and stated that he would provide the paint if color was not acceptable, however, now has gone back on that. I have tried on multiple occasions to have him look at the paint, but he won’t respond to any emails or phone calls. I’m afraid that he won’t cooperate and will want to hold my deposit in order to have it painted back. What are my options? Am I allowed to tell him that if he doesn’t make an effort to look at the paint that he forfeits the right to hold my deposit? Also, is he required to do a final walk-through with me? I want to be there during it? Finally, can I request that the landlord put in wiriting whether or not there was damage
Asked on April 10, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Colorado
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
No, unfortunately you have no right to tell the landlord that he must look at the paint or forfeit any claim, and you don't have a right to require him to do the walk through with you if he refuses. The landlord does need to document any damage in writing if he attempts to withhold money from your security deposit. If you disagree with whether there was damage, with what he is charging to repair or repaint, and/or claim that you had permmission for what you did, you could sue him (including in small claims court, where you could act as your own attorney) for the return of improperly withheld amounts.
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