Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Owner sold house and won't reimburse me for known expenses

I rented a house through a property manager. At that time, he told me the house had no curtains/blinds so I would need to buy them, keep the receipts and the owner would reimburse me. Unknown to me, the manager and owner severed their contract. About 2 months ago, the homeowner called me saying he was selling the house. The house sold in 2 weeks. However, it needed major repairs, which I bent over backwards in arranging my schedule to assist with these repairs. Needless to say, I only had a 3 week notice. I was able to find another place for myself and two children. I got the majority of my deposit back with a memo stating, "Thank you for leaving the place immaculate!" About 2 weeks later, I was able to find the receipts that totaled $420. It might not seem like a lot to most, but I am permanently disabled. I sent a very nice letter with copies of the receipts to the owner. I got a reply back stating, "As you know, I always treated you fairly.....yadda, yadda, yadda" and that he was filing for bankruptcy and that I was sol. He is a retired real estate lawyer. I am trying to raise 2 small children on very little. I left the window coverings there in good faith. Do I have any recourse?


Asked on 4/17/00, 9:53 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Ken Koury Kenneth P. Koury, Esq.

Re: Owner sold house and won't reimburse me for known expenses

The manager was an agent of the owner and the owner must honor any deals made by the manager. Go to small claims court and subpena the manager to testify.

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Answered on 4/26/00, 11:07 pm


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