Problems with tenants usually occur when damages occur in the rented unit. This is especially so when the tenants leave without fixing what they have damaged during their stay. Your only recourse here is to deduct the cost of repairing the damage from their security deposit. But everything must be documented so your tenant will not think you just want to keep his money. All damages should be listed with their corresponding cost of repair. You should also be complete with receipts. You should even have the written bids in hand.   To avoid finger pointing later on though, you should do your job right when a new tenant moves in. All existing damages should be listed and photographed as well for easy comparison later on. If the unit is furnished, all the appliances and furniture should be itemized and photographed as well.   When the tenant moves out, a thorough inspection should be a standard procedure. With your inventory with you, you should begin listing damages and take photographs of them too. After that you would need to compare the old and new inventory so you will know what damages were added. Of course, normal wear and tear is never the fault of the tenant. As for the new damages, repairs have to be done. Inform the tenant about them and give back what's remaining after all expenses are deducted. With everything documented, the tenant would not have a reason to complain. Even if he does, you have nothing to worry because you have all the proof.