Branda Peebles & Another v. Jrk Property Holdings, Inc., & Others.

Summary

The court held that landlords may not deduct from residential security deposits for reasonable wear and tear, including deterioration that may require painting, carpet repair, cleaning, or similar refurbishment. Whether damage constitutes reasonable wear and tear is a fact-specific inquiry considering the nature and cause of the damage, the property's initial condition, the expected deterioration from reasonable use, the lease's duration, and other circumstances. The court also held that a lease provision imposing cleaning or repair charges without allowing for reasonable wear and tear is void and unenforceable.