There are many legal issues that Arapahoe property managers are responsible for. Some of those processes can cost you a lot if you get them wrong. One of those is returning the security deposit. Arapahoe property managers companies have to be very careful on how they handle the security deposit. If the proper measures are not in place it can land you in a lawsuit with your tenant. Here are a few tips for you as an Arapahoe property manager to use and protect yourself.

Taking pictures is extremely important before moving a tenant in or out. As some Arapahoe property managers companies have found this can be critical when it comes to a dispute over the deposit. If it is possible take pictures of the homes condition before the tenant moves in. While most landlords have a check sheet for moving in, they often are not returned or they have checked off all items as being satisfactory. This can be disputed in court and having photos are important to prove the condition of the home prior to the tenants moving in. Taking photos after they have moved out also proves any damages you say were done and what they looked like.

An Arapahoe property manager has three weeks from the date of the tenant moving out or the receipt of the new address to send the deposit back to the tenant or a letter stating why there is no deposit. Even if you do not know the new address, it is wise to put a letter in the mail and have it come back to your Arapahoe property manager's company office. Keep it in the file in case there is a dispute.

Be sure that you are only deducting for damages that are considered above and beyond normal "wear and tear" of the home. Arapahoe property managers can get themselves in trouble if charging for items that would normally be completed after a tenant leaves anyway. Typically, carpet cleaning or repainting is not considered above average, unless it is an extreme case. If you claim it is excessive damage then be sure to document this.

When you are turning in the amounts for repairs performed on the home, do not estimate. An Arapahoe property manager's company must be able to show what they spent on the repairs and have exact amounts and receipts.