Tenant ordered to pay over NT$170,000 for dog's destruction of rental property

A landlord in Taitung City has won a lawsuit against a tenant who allowed his dog to destroy a rental property, leaving it in a state of severe disrepair and covered in waste. The tenant, identified by the surname Yang, not only failed to pay rent but also allowed his Pitbull to damage the house, leading to significant repair and cleaning costs for the landlord, surnamed Zhou.

Despite a court-certified agreement for Yang to pay 85,000 New Taiwan dollars for back rent and damages, and to vacate the property by February 10, he disappeared. Upon inspection, the landlord discovered extensive damage, including destroyed doors, windows, flooring, and electrical wiring. Items like a shoe rack and a new rice cooker were also reported missing.

The landlord incurred over 20,000 New Taiwan dollars for specialized cleaning of oil stains and animal waste, with additional high costs for water, electricity, and renovations. He sued Yang for 300,000 New Taiwan dollars, seeking compensation for repairs, lost furniture, and emotional distress.

Yang did not appear in court or submit any defense. The Taitung District Court ruled that Yang had failed to exercise the duty of care of a good administrator, and his actions constituted an infringement. The court awarded the landlord 171,344 New Taiwan dollars, covering the initial 85,000 dollar agreement, 66,500 dollars for repairs and cleaning, 18,000 dollars for a new rice cooker and old appliances, and 1,844 dollars for unpaid electricity. The landlord's claim for 55,366 dollars in emotional distress damages was rejected due to insufficient medical proof of harm.

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The court ordered the tenant to pay over 170,000 New Taiwan dollars for unpaid rent, repair costs, and cleaning fees.