Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Virginia

is fine imposed legal?

I got a letter from the apt that I live in saying I owe them $50 b/c they claim I threw a carton off of my balcony. It implies that I was seen by a member of the maintenance crew, however, that is simply not true and they cannot prove that I was seen by anyone. Can a landlord charge $50 fine simply bc he says that maintenance crew saw me throw something off our balcony? that is complete hearsay and seems my word against theirs. I know I did not throw anything from my balcony and this is a complete lie or misunderstanding on their part. please advise. Also there is nothing in the lease agreement about a fine for something like that.


Asked on 3/06/08, 8:18 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: is fine imposed legal?

You could, of course, contest the fine and refuse to pay it, and then,

if your landlord uses that refusal as a basis to serve you with a notice to vacate the premises based upon an alleged violation of the lease, the matter could then spiral from there into litigation.

You may wish to consult with an attorney to review your lease and to determine/discuss what your realistic options might be in this situation.

Read more
Answered on 3/06/08, 10:44 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Landlord & Tenants questions and answers in Virginia