How do I deal with damage to my landlord's belongings?

Questioner

I have rented a furnished apartment for over two years. During the last few months, a hole has appeared in the couch (I suspect due to wear and tear, I have not noticed any incident). I have now moved, and upon delivery I was told that I have to claim on my insurance for the bank. However, when I rented, I did not have home contents insurance, because I had almost no home contents myself. At the moment, my deposit is being withheld. How do I deal with this?

Lawyer

In such cases, much depends on the circumstances of the case. How exactly was the rental price structured (separate price for rental furniture or all-in)? It is also important to know whether there is a valuation report or agreement on the value of the furniture at the start of the lease. In addition, it is also the question of how old the couch originally was and how the depreciation on it by the landlord took place. As you yourself also indicate, furniture will wear out with use. In the case of normal wear and tear, it will be unreasonable to expect compensation for (an entire) sofa. In addition, you usually also paid an amount for the furniture in the rental price. It is therefore not always possible to request full refund/compensation. If refund is not reasonable/appropriate, the deposit should not be retained either. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or require legal assistance.