This policy serves as a default guideline only when the signed rent-to-own agreement between the landlord and tenant-buyer does not contain its own damage or dispute clause. If such provisions do exist in the signed agreement, they take precedence over this policy.

Renterlyst Damage and Dispute Policy

Effective Date: 6/13/25

This policy serves as a default guideline only when the signed rent-to-own agreement between the landlord and tenant-buyer does not contain its own damage or dispute clause. If such provisions do exist in the signed agreement, they take precedence over this policy.

1. Defining Normal Wear and Tear vs. Damage

Renterlyst distinguishes between normal wear and tear and tenant-caused damage in order to minimize disputes.

Normal Wear and Tear Includes:

• Faded paint

• Minor surface scuffs or scratches

• Slight carpet thinning or discoloration from foot traffic

• Loose fixtures or handles from routine use

Damage Includes:

• Holes in walls bigger than the circumference of a nail

• Broken windows or doors due to force

• Burnt countertops, deep gouges in flooring or walls

• Broken appliances due to misuse or neglect
  

Pre-Move-In Documentation:
Renterlyst strongly encourages both tenants and landlords to take photos or videos of the property before move-in to establish a clear record of the property's baseline condition. This helps prevent future misunderstandings or disputes about whether a condition is pre-existing or new.

2. Tenant Responsibilities

Because rent-to-own agreements are designed for eventual homeownership, tenants are primarily responsible for maintaining the property and completing any necessary repairs.

Tenant responsibilities include:

• Reporting any damage within 24 hours of discovering it

• Performing reasonable maintenance and upkeep throughout tenancy

• Avoiding negligence or intentional damage

• Communicating promptly and clearly with the landlord in writing about any issues

Failure to report damage promptly may be considered a breach of this policy.

3. Landlord Responsibilities

In a rent-to-own arrangement, landlords are expected to intervene only for major issues that impact the habitability of the home (e.g., structural failures, serious plumbing or electrical problems).

Landlord responsibilities include:

• Addressing major habitability-related concerns in a timely manner

• Maintaining transparency in communications regarding any issues reported

• Not interfering with minor cosmetic or repair matters that fall under tenant responsibility

4. Damage Documentation

To ensure objectivity in the event of a dispute, both parties should document any damage thoroughly and in a timely manner. Landlords are encouraged to maintain:

• Time-stamped photos or videos of the damage

• A clear written description of the issue

• Any relevant repair estimates, receipts, or contractor statements

• Notes on prior condition, if known

Tenants are likewise encouraged to keep their own damage records.

5. Dispute Resolution

If a disagreement arises over the cause, severity, or responsibility for damage, the following steps apply:

1. Direct Negotiation: The parties must first attempt to resolve the matter in good faith through direct communication.

2. Optional Mediation: If negotiation fails, either party may pursue private mediation at their own cost.

3. Legal Action: As a last resort, either party may seek resolution through applicable local courts or legal avenues.

Renterlyst is not a party to any dispute and does not mediate or arbitrate damage claims.

6. Communication Guidelines

To maintain transparency and prevent escalation:

• All damage reports must be submitted in writing, via email or other agreed-upon communication channels

• Parties should document all correspondence related to the damage or dispute

• Verbal reports must be followed up in writing to be considered valid

Important Notice

This Damage and Dispute Policy exists only as a fallback. Whenever possible, Renterlyst recommends that landlords and tenant-buyers include a clear damage and dispute clause in their rent-to-own agreement. Doing so protects both parties and minimizes the risk of confusion or legal conflict.