Thank you for your advice

I just need to assess whether I am on a firm ground to deduct his deposit for the damages, including filling nail holes (a few dozens of them) and patch painting (he rented for a few days longer than a year, so I charged 2/3 of the cost for painting per CA law). What if he says the breakage was due to old age of the furniture as excuse?

You are right, if I give in this time, there may be a next time as well. Thank you.