Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in California

Left an apartment and now They say i owe $3k

Hello,

About 3 years ago, my girlfriend and I got an apartment with 2 other roomates. We did not get along and eventually my girlfriend and I decided we should move out. We told the manager about our situation and said that we could sign a paper releasing us from all responsibility to the apartment and that our roomates would continue to live there. We signed the paper, moved out, and everything was good. Now, about 3 years later there is a collection account on my credit report that states we owe over about $3000 (2 months rent). I faxed the copy of our release form as proof to the collection agency but they keep calling and saying the case is not closed. Meanwhile my credit is abdly suffering. Is there anything I can do?

Thank you very much for your help,

--name removed---name removed--

[email protected]


Asked on 4/06/04, 5:49 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Restivo Restivo Law Firm

Re: Left an apartment and now They say i owe $3k

Howdy:

First, don't deal with the collection agency. They only get paid if they get any money from you, so they're not interested in recognizing the error.

Write the collection agency a letter stating that you will only deal with the owner of the debt. Once they receive that, they'll have to return the account.

Next, write a letter to the apartment complex, including a copy of the release you have. Give it about a week, and then call them and talk to them about it. (The time allows for your letter to get there.)

rkr

Read more
Answered on 4/06/04, 7:39 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Landlord & Tenants questions and answers in California