Is there a law about replacing carpet in a rental unit??

Question

I live in Oregon. Is there a law stating that a landlord has to replace carpet in a rental unit, such as an apartment?? Such as, every two years, between tenants, etc???

I am being sued for damage to carpet in a rental unit that I lived in for 2 1/2 years. The damage occured UNDER where the W/D sat!!! I want to find any legal backing that I can to defend myself!

Any help or links to legal sites with this information very appreciated!

Answer 1

It probably would be best to contact a local attorney to answer this question, but I do not believe any law exists on the books in any state which requires that carpet be replaced. If this were the case, the carpet industry would fight this law, even though it might produce more carpet sales. Carpet is not a disposable item and this approach would not be environmentally sound. Carpet cleaning studies show steam cleaning removes 99% of all contaminates with each cleaning. With this kind of success, it would be hard to imagine that a State Legislature (even the Bush Administration) would require a law which increases the use of our natural resources.

Answer 2

Tenant's will try to convince you things like the unit "has" to be repainted every year or between tenants, or that the carpet has to be replaced every five years. Well, I think it all depends on the condition of the carpet. Our complex uses higher grade carpet because we find it lasts longer and holds up better. Apartment grade carpet which we used to use, wears out fast and mats down to easy which is why we upgraded. If you cause damage you are liable, such as stains, tears, bleach, etc. You would have to pay to redye the carpet where colored stains are, or if it is so stained as we experienced with one tenant, who lived there less than a year with brand new carpet, it was destroyed, no giving prorates on that one, I think if a carpet is 5 years old but is still in good condition no reason to replace it just because a tenant thinks so to get out of damages.

Answer 3

You need to check with your city/county and with your state. If the link below doesn't pull up the answer, call the office of the Attorney General, and your local government--see if the local government has any rules. Where I am carpets should be replaced every 5 years but we're the exception, I think.

Answer 4

Sadly, if there was no damage to the carpet before you moved in, you're more than likely going to be on the hook for it.

Answer 5

i hate to say it but i think you are going to have to pay for the damage. most apartments have a security deposit that you have to pay before moving in so that if you cause any damages to the apartment, the cost of fixing it comes out of the deposit. technically though, you ruined the carpet so it is your responsibility to fix it.

Answer 6

Yes, in Colorado it needs to be replaced when bad or every 5 yrs. Not always followed.

Answer 7

I can't help you with Oregon law.
But renters and landlords should take pictures prior to moving in so you always have proof.

Answer 8

if you are going to have sex on the floor, at least put a piece of plastic under you to keep the juices out of the carpet