Flu, I believe CA now has a law requiring a pre-move-out inspection at least 2 weeks before vacancy. This gives tenant a chance to correct deficiencies on their own and possibly save a deduction from their deposit.
It is one of the few “pro-tenant” CA laws I believe make sense. It fosters communication between these two potentially waring parties and reminds tenants that they are liable for damages beyond “normal wear and tear”, and necessary cleaning as specified in the lease.
In this case landlord seems entitled to monetary damages totaling labor and materials for replacement carpet and pad, but only for the affected room(s), and only after depreciating for the age of the carpet.
