Security Deposit useage - NJ

[Bethy]

Never rent to relatives was our mantra, but we did due to an unfortunate situation that occurred. Now, the single mom of 2 wants to use the security deposit for the last month's rent.
This was supposed to be a rent to purchase home but she decided she didn't want to buy "ours" after the year was up. During this time, she did pay the rent on time, but did not pay all the utilities and acquired a large dog (the lease said no more pets unless agreed upon first...) mid-way. We couldn't kick out someone w/ 2 little kids and now she wants to forgo paying the last month's rent saying we can use the security deposit. NO, that's not what that's for. There were all new carpets put in, new tiling in 2 rooms and alot of grunt work thinking it was going up for sale until her dilemma came up.

Now we're the "meanies"....one relative says normal wear and tear is expected and not to be taken out of security deposit. I feel like I need to have the carpets cleaned and will need to repaint. Doesn't that all come under the security deposit useage?What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

 

[Searchertwin]

Never rent to relatives was our mantra, but we did due to an unfortunate situation that occurred. Now, the single mom of 2 wants to use the security deposit for the last month's rent.
This was supposed to be a rent to purchase home but she decided she didn't want to buy "ours" after the year was up. During this time, she did pay the rent on time, but did not pay all the utilities and acquired a large dog (the lease said no more pets unless agreed upon first...) mid-way. We couldn't kick out someone w/ 2 little kids and now she wants to forgo paying the last month's rent saying we can use the security deposit. NO, that's not what that's for. There were all new carpets put in, new tiling in 2 rooms and alot of grunt work thinking it was going up for sale until her dilemma came up.

Now we're the "meanies"....one relative says normal wear and tear is expected and not to be taken out of security deposit. I feel like I need to have the carpets cleaned and will need to repaint. Doesn't that all come under the security deposit useage?What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

If you feel that the carpets need to be clean, than clean and deduct.
If the walls are dirty, stains, have marks, or countless nail holes, you can paint and deduct. But if it is just dull looking, than no, you can't deduct.
Look up "wear and tear" and "damages", you will notice the difference.
Take pictures to back you up.
Grunt work was your choice, not the renters.