Bend landlord frustrated with $60,000 in damage left by renters, says more laws needed

(Update: Adding video, comments)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- COVID-19-related relief programs set up by the state of Oregon and other agencies have given some relief to tenants who have been impacted financially and are unable to pay their rent, and also provided compensation to landlords as well. However, one Bend landlord says he is not granted the same rights when renters cause serious issues.

Paul Ruettgers said Tuesday he and his wife rent out a home on Awbrey Butte in West Bend. They had a family living in the home for nearly three years. Ruettgers said they've had several challenges with the tenants, including late rent payments and lots of damage they have not paid for -- totaling $60,000.

That includes water, furnace and carpet damage, along with cabinets, walls and trim clawed by unauthorized pets. Seven doors need to be replaced, he said, and there are also damaged appliances and missing items.

Ruettgers said the tenants moved in in 2018, stopped paying rent last August and moved out in October.

"When I found out how much damage was done, and my jaw dropped about seeing everything, I thought, 'How is this going to be recouped? How am I going to pay for this?'" he said. "Landlords nationwide, this community included, have no recourse. We cannot do anything to recoup the costs, except we're forced to possibly go to court, which is a burden on us."

Ruettgers said he believes there should be more laws that protect landlords.