Legal Question in Consumer Law in California
When we entered into our lease agreement for our current residence we were verbally told (several different times) that the apartment complex was "pet-friendly" and that each unit was allowed one small pet (dog, cat, or rodent) WITHOUT deposit or concurrent fees. While signing the lease our manager filed the pet agreement with 0 pets and had us sign it "just because it has to be included in the file."We have never received a copy of our rental agreement even though we requested one on several occasions. After we renewed out lease for an additional year we adopted a small dog. Three months into our current lease our property underwent a staffing change and our new manager has informed us that we are now required to pay a $500 pet deposit (no clarification on whether or not this deposit is specified non-refundable) as well as an additional $50 a month pet tenant fee as well as having to add the pet as a tenant to the lease. From what I have read in our rental file there are no clauses in our agreement that authorize any additional fees or rent increases during the terms of the lease. Also, no where in the pet disclosure does it state anything about imposing pet deposits or monthly pet fees. We have now been issued an "Invitation to Participate" in the addition of our dog on our lease and agree to pay subsequant fees. What are our rights? How should we proceed? Can we dispute these impositions/increases?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Try reading the contract from now on instead of relying on what You Were Told. And how was it that you signed a contract without receiving a copy. From now on walk it over to the copy machine.
The written version over rides the verbal modification. Too bad.
Related Questions & Answers
-
Does notification of cancellation of vehicle contract have to be in writing Asked 11/14/10, 11:52 pm in United States California Consumer Law
-
WHat do i do if i found a tooth in my ground turkey? Asked 11/14/10, 6:26 pm in United States California Consumer Law
-
Hi, My wife walked into a BofA branch and withdrew $550.00 cash. Then she went to... Asked 11/12/10, 11:43 am in United States California Consumer Law
-
Is pep boys required to replace my vehicle with the exact vehicle after they... Asked 11/11/10, 10:58 pm in United States California Consumer Law
-
I bought a used car from a dealership and signed a contract agreeing to a specific... Asked 11/09/10, 12:42 pm in United States California Consumer Law