Legal Question in Employment Law in Florida
An Apartment Manager's Rights
The apartment manager in my building has not been paid in 5 months by the landlord. She was reimbursed $ 600.00 for materials 4 days ago, but is still owed about $3,000.00. She is willing to discount 3 months in rent with the landlord ( 3 x $675 = 2,025.00)and the remainer to be paid immediately. The landlord is evasive. He promises to come in person to speak to her, and then never shows. And now he's out of town. How can she remain on good terms with her employer and be compensated?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: An Apartment Manager's Rights
You have hit the nail on the head with your question. It is near impossible to solve these situations and remain on good terms, since the employer is acting wrongfully to begin with and likewise will react defensively to any action by the manager. Nevertheless, it sounds like the manager is entitled to the pay (I assume it is pay for the work she has done, which she is entitled to under her agreement with the landlord), and should receive it without having to discount it at all. She should send a letter, return receipt requested, to the landlord, diplomatically requesting the pay by the next normal payday. The letter should list the work done and the money due. It should not be antagonistic. Just stick to the facts and request payment. Then, if payment is not received, the manager can enlist the aid of an attorney or call the U.S. Dept. of Labor (Florida does not have one). The regional wage and hour offices are: Jacksonville, Fl. 904-232-2489, then press Ext. 0; Orlando, Fl. 407-648-6471, then press Ext. 75; Ft. Lauderdale, Fl. 954-356-6896, then press Ext. * and 8771; Miami, Fl. 305-596-9874, then press Ext.* and 8771.
Please feel free to call for a free consultation if you or the manager needs an attorney.
Good luck.
Jeff Sheldon
Jeffrey L. Sheldon, Esquire
The Sheldon Law Firm
17804 St. Lucia Isle Drive
Tampa, FL 33647
813.986.7580
(f) 813.986.7489
(Admitted in Fl., MD, D.C., and Pa.)
http://www.SheldonLawFirm.com
Disclaimer: This posting does not and is not intended to constitute legal advice. It is not confidential, nor is it privileged, and it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please consult with an attorney for advice specific to the facts of your case.