Property Damage Dispute Lawyer Upper Marlboro, MD | Rental Damage Claims
By Jonathan L. Haskell, Esq.
When a tenant moves out and the place is damaged, one question always comes up:
“Who’s responsible—and who’s going to pay?”
As a landlord-tenant attorney in Upper Marlboro, I frequently handle disputes involving property damage.
Whether you’re a landlord trying to recover repair costs or a tenant facing unfair deductions from your security deposit, the key is evidence—and knowing the law.
Let’s break it down.
🧱 Landlords: You Can’t Charge for Wear and Tear
Under Maryland law, you can deduct from a tenant’s security deposit for actual damage, not for everyday wear and tear.
That means:
- Yes: Holes in walls, broken fixtures, ruined carpets, smashed appliances
- No: Minor scuffs, faded paint, worn flooring
You must also:
- Send an itemized list of deductions within 45 days after the lease ends
- Provide invoices or estimates if possible
- Return the remaining balance to the tenant on time
If you don’t follow these rules, I’ve seen landlords lose triple the deposit in court.
I help landlords build strong, legally sound claims with thorough documentation and proper notice.
🛑 Tenants: You Have the Right to Dispute Charges
If your landlord made unfair deductions, didn’t return your deposit, or is accusing you of damage you didn’t cause, you have legal options.
I’ve helped tenants:
- Prove pre-existing damage using move-in photos or videos
- Challenge inflated or vague repair costs
- Take landlords to court to recover the full deposit
Don’t wait too long—Maryland has deadlines for filing claims.
📝 Good Documentation Wins Every Time
Whether you’re a landlord or tenant, I can’t stress this enough: take photos, keep receipts, and put everything in writing.
Most damage disputes come down to what can be proven, not what’s said.
I help clients gather the evidence and build the correct argument to protect their money and their reputation.
✅ Let’s Resolve This Now
If you’re in a fight over damage costs or a security deposit in Upper Marlboro, don’t guess—call me.
I’ll walk you through it and help you avoid costly mistakes.
📅 Book a consultation now at: https://haskellanddyer.com/contact/
