Carpet Replacement.

[alleyne]

We are being charged for new carpet from our last apartment. $1500!!! How often are they required to replace the carpeting in each unit? They said they had 10 year carpet down.

[Garren]

Meghan, here's what Wisconsin statutes say:

Wisconsin Statute 704.07(3)(a) Duty of tenant.  If the premises are damaged by the negligence or improper use of the premises by the tenant, the tenant must repair the damage and restore the appearance of the premises by redecorating. However, the landlord may elect to undertake the repair or redecoration, and in such case the tenant must reimburse the landlord for the reasonable cost thereof; the cost to the landlord is presumed reasonable unless proved otherwise by the tenant.

The Landlord can only charge you for damages beyond "normal wear and tear".  If you stained the carpet or burned holes in it, he can charge you to have it replaced.  If you lived there for six months and didn't add any stains, rips, burns, etc., then he can't legally charge you for anything because carpet is expected to wear over time and require replacement.

The owner is not "required" to replace carpet until it needs it.  If he feels it requires replacement, he must prover that you caused the damage beyond normal wear and tear.  I would contact him, read him the statute, and find out why you are being charged for it.  If you caused damage, own up to it.  If not, let him know you won't be pushed around.

Nathan