Rent Problems Are Frustrating; but you're not alone: Thousands of tenants rely on RPA to solve problems
Repair Issue | Case#**-*000
Murphy,
Texas -
75094
We asked for someone to come and remove the hazardous debris after having a company clean out the house due to previous flooding caused by a broken toilet valve. The flooding has been resolved, but the debris has been inside of the house for 3 weeks and we do not know what to do with it because we are not allowed to touch it. Complaining to our landlord has not been an improvement and we were threatened with an evacuation, even though the insurance has settled the matter with him. This has not been the first issue, we have had broken glass windows from a storm that happened in April 2016. When brought to the attention of the landlord, he stated that the windows were double panned and it will not cause harm to my wife and children, even though this was also settled with the insurance.
Harassment ,Fraud, Breach Of Agreement | Case#**-*231
Atlanta,
Georgia -
30318
On February 2, 2021 I became aware that my checking account was overdrawn due to a double billing of my rent. I immediately contacted (in person) a leasing agent and informed him of the problem. I informed him that I would be placing a stop payment because he could not give me a definitive time as to when the matter would be resolved. I rescinded my portal authorization for any future payments and deleted payment account. I submitted my check on February 3, 2021 for rent.
On March 1, 2021 I submitted my check for rent. On March 3,2021 I became aware that they were attempting to process an ACH transaction for rent through the payment portal. They again attempted to process another ACH transaction on April 1, 2021. I became aware because my bank sent me a fraud alert. The account had been closed due to fraudulent activity. They sent me a receipt thanking me for my payment. This prompted me to immediately inquire because I authorized no such payment. On April 5, 2021 I submitted a Cashier Check for rent because they alleged that my check had been returned. They continually refuse to address this matter while continually presenting obstacles to my peaceful residency. (ie. I notified them that my son would be staying with me temporarily and signed an addendum as required. They now contend he cannot be an occupant.) They trivialize this matter by their refusal to address it in a substantive way. I have been living with anxiety under a cloud of insecurity not knowing what further disruptive actions they may attempt to take. I initially considered this matter as a minor glitch or snafu. But I now wonder if their actions are a purposeful form of harassment and fraud.
Return Of Security Deposit | Case#**-*140
GLENDALE,
CA -
91205 3586
Upon moving out i had a security deposit of $2300. I paid the months rent (2000) but moved out at the start of the month 8/18. The landlord noticed damages and his office staff (emma) phoned me to say they would take out $600 for damages. However since they rented the property out early they would refund me $500. After doing the math with Emma it was agreed I would receive a check for 2200. In the mail I received a check for 1550, and when i called to complain i was advised there was more damage than initially thought. There was no phone call or email advising me that this was happening.
Bed Bug Infestation | Case#**-*194
FLORISSANT,
Missouri -
63031
I have had multiple issues with riverchase the cleanliness of the apartments have always been issue from the start of the lease back in May of 2017. I have had plumbing issues, nails sticking out of carpet damaging me and 17 month old, and now the apartment is infested with bed bugs. I have placed multiple online work order request and it takes weeks before the maintenance crew comes out with any repairs. I have recently placed in a work order request on 9/2/18 and did not receive anyone out to the apartment until 9/5 to due inspection for treatment I have asked is there anything that can be done for inconvenience and was told that they will pay for treatment initially and bill me later. The issue is that the leasing agent Jackie let me know that no other neighbors complained of pesticides but the pesticide employee accidentally left paperwork in apartment with a list of apartments that he was preparing and treating for the same issue. I have a 17 month old child never had issues with paying rent but I do not fill that I should be punished for the lack of sanitation of the complex. I would like to be able to terminate lease early with no penalty due to the issues that I have faced.
Illegal charges/beach of their own contract | Case#**-*604
CHENEY,
WA -
99004 8566
When we first moved into Balfour Beatty housing on Fairchild AFB, we were not provided with a yard. We asked Balfour to remedy the problem (as our contact states that we will have a yard to maintain) not only were we told that they would not help us, but they told us we would be responsible upon moving out for the horrible conditions. We fought for 6 months and eventually, under the advisement of professionals, Balfour installed a sod lawn. Inspiration of sod was their choice and we never signed any additional contacts.
We decided to move off base in March. During the pre-checkout walk through, we were told that everything, including the yard looked great and nothing needed to be done. Due to the lack of a proper drainage system in the backyard, there was normal damage caused by excess water. I offered to lay seed, fertilize and lay peet moss. I was told that was more than necessary, but the following day I had everything taken care of.
4 days after the initial walk through, (and conveniently the day my husband left for field) I was approached by Balfour. They gave me a bill for $391.00. I was told that the manager felt that since they laid sod,I had to too.
The maintenance company they use on base,Yardmaster, told me, two other professionals we brought in and the Balfour management that siding was completely unnecessary and that the manager was acting out for personal reasons. When yardmaster and the professionals with them were physically shoved from the offices by the manager because she didn't want to listen, The manager at yardmaster decided that he had had enough of the illegal actions of the management team, and resigned the following day.
It is illegal to withhold any rent for anything other than rent in the state of Washington. It is explicit in the contract that we signed with Balfour, that tenants can only be held responsible for the condition that the property was received in. Balfour is illegally withholding, not just the remaining rent from the month of March, but also the entire month of April (we moved out early March) all for illegal purposes.
Whether the corporate offices know it or not, the Balfour Beatty management team on Fairchild AFB is engaging in illegal acts, and the airmen and their families stationed here are being taken advantage of and suffering because of their actions.
Refund Of Deposit Since Booking Cancelled In Given Timeframe. | Case#**-*555 I have blocked an apartment in this community and before paying the deposit amount, I asked the leasing agent, Mary, in case I have to back out will my deposit amount be refunded and I was told that AFTER blocking if I inform them within 3 days then the entire deposit will be refunded. And it was also told to me that apartment will be blocked in my name only when I give them the a copy of Social Security Number and a check of $300. I have given them the $300 check on 6/26/14 and at that time it was told to me that apartment will NOT be blocked until I give them a copy of SSN, I also got an email reminder from Mary on 6/30/14 asking for a copy of SSN to block the apartment. I sent them a scanned copy of Social Security on 6/30/14 and I had informed my decision of backing out on 7/2/14 which is well within 3 days from the time of blocking the apartment.
Now they are saying that deposits will not be refunded and it is is against their policy. If it was not to be refunded then she should not have told me so. I have a clear proof in my emails which clearly indicates that I was promised by the leasing Agent, Mary, that deposit will be refunded if I change my decision and inform them with in 3 days.
In one email from Mary on 7/2/14 where in she wrote.."We have someone in the office that is ready to put money down on a unit and I know today is your last day to give us notice and they want your unit. Let me know by the end of the day what your thoughts are." This statement clearly indicates that Mary promised to refund the deposit. And because of the same reason she had shown this apartment to someone else which was blocked in my name. I shall attached the relevant emails and other correspondence.
Request you to please get my deposit amount refunded.
Repair issue | Case#**-*711
Independence,
Missouri -
64050
House had termite infestation (this was assed by landlord but possibly still a problem)
Baseboards and windowsills were rotten as a result (reported by email over a month ago with no attempt to repair.
Leak in the ceiling even though no recent rain, possible standing water in roof area, also reported with no repair
Strong mold smell despite deep cleaning of house
Shed door was broken and bent prior to our move in, also requested but not repaired
Bad Carpet | Case#**-*985 I'm tired of smelly carpet and it has not been removed and it's been 15yrs with this old smelly carpet please help
Breaking Lease due to Robberies, Landlord did not ensure safety, Trying to charge fees that I am not | Case#**-*147
Claremore,
Oklahoma -
74019
I have had two robberies, the landlord failed to come and change my locks. Robberies took place the day the Landlords maintenance man was in my residence. I have called about leaks in the toilet, which were never fixed, now landlord is trying to charge me with the overage in water. I am now forced to vacate the residence due to landlord being unable to provide a safe and stable unit. I am under a Rental agreement with Cherokee Nation and they have asked me to vacate as well due to the conditions. Now, the landlord is sending/harrassing me with fees to pay to which he cannot explain.
Hot Water Heater Shorted Out On 3/9/2014. Have Contacted Landlord 4 Times | Case#**-*802 Have never asked for any type of repair in the almost 2 years we have been here. Get along with the landlord but they are not taking our request for our hot water to be fixed seriously. On a side note, we have a disabled child who needs to bathe regularly because she is prone to urinary tract infections. Law states our hot water needs to be fixed with in 24 hours and we have been very patient but we really need this taken care of.
Complaint Process in 3 Simple Steps:
File Apartment Complaint: Fill out complaint form with your proposed resolution. Instantly recieve your case number.
Check Status: See the current status, respond, upload files or images, accept fair solution or purpose alternative solutions.
Landlord Public Record: Positive or Negative record is attached to landlord based upon their responses. Your (tenant) information is not made public.
Complaints Tips:
Uploading pictures / files is helpful
Try to request fair solutions
Focus on major issue, not on many
Check your status every 3 days
Avoid accusations or hostile tones
Be willing to accept alternate solution
How Does the RPA Help Resolve Rental Problems?
Once you file a complaint, the RPA will contact your landlord or property manager to mediate a prompt resolution. The RPA online mediation system provides an effective complaint resolution process that helps solve problems quickly. Complaints filed through the RPA are documented and help protect tenants' rights by providing a program that protects against landlord retaliation and unfair practices. Agreements reached through the RPA Apartment Complaint Center are legally binding and enforceable. When required the complaint can be used as evidence in court.
The RPA requires a $35 one-time processing fee to cover the cost associated with contacting the landlord, online mediation, paperwork, and public record filing. Prior to 2006 the RPA complaint program had no fee. However, due to abuse by tenants that were filing bogus complaints; the RPA found it necessary to charge of fee to eliminate fake complaints and to cover costs associated with complaint handling. If you are looking to report the problem only and not seeking a resolution, you can use our free Report Landlord option. (The report landlord option will only document the problem and will not provide any assistance in resolving disputes.)
Tip: On your complaint form you can request that management reimburse you for RPA filing fees.
How long does the process take?
The RPA is able to resolve complaints fairly quickly, unlike court or other legal options. Cases are normally assigned in the order received; however, you can upgrade your case to be rushed if you need your case escalated. (option available immediately after filing)For fastest processing try to submit your complaint before the next processing deadline. (Count down shown next to "File Complaint" button.) Once the mediation process begins, your landlord will have 3 business days to respond to the mailed notice. If a landlord email address is provided the RPA will send out both a written notice and email notice which can provide an immediate resolution. Many times cases are resolved immediately after receiving the RPA® notice, however depending on the complaint, it can take longer if both parties are unable to reach an agreement quickly.
Tip: To speed up the process... On the complaint form request reasonable and fair solutions.
Does the RPA Guarantee to Resolve Every Complaint?
Each complaint is guaranteed to be worked by the RPA complaint system. The RPA mediation system will work to resolve every complaint regardless of how big or small the complaint. However, the RPA can't guarantee the end results of any complaint. While we work to solve each complaint, the guarantee is limited to our processing of your complaint. All fees associated with the complaint are non-refundable dispute the outcome of the complaint. Each complaint is Guaranteed to be worked by our complaint system and will be documented against the landlord should they fail to cooperate.
Tip: To get positive resolutions to your complaint; try providing resolutions that are fair.
What Happens After I file a Complaint?
Upon filing your landlord / property manager complaint you will instantly receive a case number. Your complaint case number can be used to immediately access your complaint status page. The RPA will process your complaint and contact your landlord for an immediate resolution. On your status page you can view case status, upload files or images, respond to the complaint, update/ change resolutions, accept or close complaint. The RPA complaint center updates your case status in real time and provides you with tracking to see exactly what is happening with your complaint. Once the case is closed, the complaint will be attached to your landlords public record which is quickly indexed by all major search engines. (Your information is never made public)
Tip: Check your case status at least every 3 days. (Respond / update your case as required)
Protection Against Landlord Retaliation
Its unlawful for your landlord to retaliate against you because you filed a complaint. Your landlord cannot evict, harass, limit access, raise rent, or treat you unfairly because you filed a complaint. As a tenant, you must still pay rent and comply with rent terms stated within your contract. Filing a complaint does not eliminate your responsibilities.
Tip: Check your case status at least every 3 days. (Respond / update your case as required)
Who Can File a Complaint with the RPA?
Any renter located in the United States of America has the right to file a complaint with the RPA. The RPA does not accept complaints outside of the USA. In general, the RPA will accept every complaint regardless of how big or small the problem may be.
Tip: When possible, try resolving your problem with your landlord before filing a complaint.
