Security Deposit reimbursement

[subbiedo]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? California

We recently vacated a premises after a one year lease and were expecting a refund of our security deposit with minor deductions. Instead we recieved a quote for the following damages we were expected to pay for and the amounts it would cost. Our Security deposit was $1500, and these amounts sound a little ridiculous... Is this legal? This guy is trying to sell this place, so it seems like he is trying to make us pay for stuff he needs to do?

This is what it says:
"There are little holes at each stair section. I think they were baby gates of the like. This requires dry wall repair and paint touch up. Unfortunately with the type and color of paint that you have in your house, this requires to go from corner to corner or control line to hide. You cannot properly hide the patch any other way. There are also some divots in the other walls. All in all, there is about 800 sq ft of wall to repaint with 5 differerent colors. $1600.00
Garage walls are scuffed and dirty. Repaint white. $400.00"
~ Can my husband do the patch jobs, as they are small holes from baby gates? And how are we responsible to pay for a complete paint job? There are NO holes in the walls other than nail hols from hanging pictures, and maybe small scuffs related to normal wear and tear.

Also, he is saying that we caused water damage from removing our washer and dryer. We turned off the water and capped off the faucets, but the valve would not close all the way. If the damage lies deeper (which I think it does), is that not his issue? What are we liable to pay for?

 

[ecmst12]

Dirt and scuffs on GARAGE walls should be considered normal wear and tear. Dirt in the HOUSE would not be, but garages are normally dirty places.

I also think he's crazy if he thinks he can charge you to repaint the whole house to hide a couple of tiny drywall patches.

Small claims court may be the easiest solution. You are fortunate to live in a very tenant-friendly state.

Oh he is also required to provide receipts for work done in your state.

 

[subbiedo]

So, do we fix the nail holes? Or let him and ask for receipts?

What about the supposed water damage? Can we ask that a licensed professional (like a plumber, not this general contractor he is using) take a look? In the quote there is mention of another water leak directly below the area. I think it's leaking behind the wall, not the faucet that we capped off...