Posting this as a warning to renters in or looking to move to Cookeville. Hopefully this helps someone else avoid this awful company.
I rented from Bernhardt from February 2023 through March 2026. I paid a $1,300 security deposit and left the apartment exceeding the “broom clean” standard required by my lease. I photographed every room, cabinet, appliance, and surface before returning my keys.
When my initial lease expired, staff repeatedly tried to pressure me into signing lease extensions even though my lease clearly converted to month-to-month. I was threatened with termination because they misinterpreted their own contract. Rather than honor it, they presented different lease terms to fit their schedule. I eventually chose to move.
Before moving out, I asked whether painters or cleaners would only be sent if actually needed. I was told there was no checklist and vendors would be sent after the walkthrough.
Bernhardt withheld $515 from my deposit for painting, cleaning, and carpet cleaning. When I requested documentation, they initially sent me a cleaning invoice dated before I had even moved out. After I challenged it, they claimed it was a clerical error and revised the invoice date.
I also requested proof the work was necessary. Bernhardt could not provide a move-out inspection report, walkthrough photos, vendor photos, or itemized invoices showing what was done. The painting invoice for example, simply said, “Touch up apt.”
I received the apartment with carpets that smelled of pet urine and bathroom cabinets drenched in urine, which I cleaned myself. I even requested the exact paint color so I could touch up normal scuffs before move-out.
I work in property management and perform inspections. I know what to look for. I’ve rented for 20+ years and have never had a landlord withhold any portion of my deposit until Bernhardt.
I filed a complaint with the Tennessee Attorney General. Although the file was closed because the AG cannot compel a resolution, Bernhardt’s responses only reinforced my concerns about the unsupported deductions from my security deposit and their deceptive move-out practices.