Landlords rights

[JulieC]

Much to my dismay, I have on a couple of occasions been late with my rent. When this has happened, a 3 day pay or quit notice has been posted on my door. This I don't have a problem with. Yesterday, I arrived home from work and was changing my clothes. Someone began banging on my door and being in a state of undress, I was trying to get dressed before answering. Before I had that opportunity, I heard the bolt turn. At this point, I didn't even know who was at the door. Half dressed, I went to the door and was handed the pay or quit notice and he left. A moment later, I heard the bolt turn again and went back to the door. When I asked him what he was doing, he stated he had left his keys in the lock and just left offering on explaination. Does he have tie right to enter my apartment at any time simply because I am late with my rent? I have to wonder how many other times he has been in my apartment when I wasn't there. I have written a letter to the management but am unsure what if any other action I should take. Any help would be appreciates. Thanks.

 

[ALawyer]

Have you read your lease? What does it say about entry? And if he was wrong, do you want to stay or leave -- it is NOT a defense to non-payment of rent.

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[JulieC]

Originally posted by ALawyer:
Have you read your lease? What does it say about entry? And if he was wrong, do you want to stay or leave -- it is NOT a defense to non-payment of rent.


I have read my lease, and have learned that management has the right of entry in the event a problem exists, ie: maintenence concerns but is required to leave written notification. There have been many maintenence concerns but I have made all repairs myself and have never even bothered the management staff with my concerns. When he entered my apartment, he did not give any reason, verbally or written, in fact, he ran when he saw me, which would explain why he left his keys in the door and came back a second time. If he thought I was not home, he should have had written notification as to why he was entering, he did not provide me with that. I find this to be very distressing. I have to wonder how many other times he has entered my apartment without my knowledge or other tenants apartments. I just don't feel I should have to worry every time I change my clothes, bathe or go to work that my privacy will be violated. As to staying or leaving, I will probably stay. I don't think I'm the problem here, I think he is!