Posted by JJ on July 05, 2001 at 22:12:37:
In Reply to: overcharging roomates posted by E on July 05, 2001 at 18:46:08:
: I have an interesting problem. I suspect that I was overcharged by a person from whom I was renting a room this year. Initially, I did not suspect this, though I know now it happens in New York all the time. I signed a lease agreement with this person in which the real rent of the apt was never mentioned, just what I would be charged per month. Unfortunately, we did not get along, and i decided to move out at the end of May though I loved the neighborhood. Among other things, this person is refusing to give me back part of my security deposit for no good reason. I also suspect that this is a rent-controlled or rent-stabilized apt, because he doesn't make much money and it's in a great neighborhood.
: Now. I am trying to get my security deposit back WITHOUT getting this guy evicted, which he seemed worried about. I am worried that if I contact the owners of the building to get this info, that they will try to take legal action against him. Even though he was a jerk, that is pretty low. How can I get this guy to give me the rest of my security deposit without acting like a blackmailer? Any advice on this topic, especially legal advice, would be appreciated. Thanks!
If all you want is your security, write him a letter demanding it in 10 days, quote the law or the plain English version from one of the tenant handbooks on tenant.net (NY tenant Info). Threaten to take him to Small Claims Court. His landlord probably won't check the SC computer and you will get your money back.
Now, if you want the "overcharge" back, you've got a lot of work ahead of you, so start reading....
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