When you sign an agreement with the tenant, include a section covered by findings of the “walk-through.”  The walk-through the property should be done by the landlord and the tenant and every existing damage or issue noted in writing.  The walk-through document becomes an appendix to the rental agreement and protects both the tenant and the landlord. 

When the tenant moves out, the deposit amount the landlord holds in escrow will cover any repairs and damages caused by the tenant.  Again, prior to the tenant moving out, both parties should complete a walk-through to identify needed repairs.  The tenant should have the option of repairing the problems or be informed the amount to repair such damage will be deducted from the deposit.