landlord false advertising?

Question

I moved into an apartment last June.In the newspaper and on the contract it states NO PETS. After moving in I discovered that just about every single tenant has animals! My downstairs neighbor had 2 German shepherds that barked all the time. They would leave the dog outside tied to a pipe or something and every time I would try to scoot past the one dog to get in my door he would growl and bark and lunge at me. Also, they never cleaned up the dogs feces and both myself, fiancee and friends stepped in it numerous times! I wrote the landlord a letter telling him about the dogs and nothing was ever done! I called the rental office and asked about terminating my lease early and was told the only penalty I would face would be that my deposit would not be returned to me. Unfortunately I didn't get it in writing and now am being billed 2 months rent plus an $860 administrative fee for "skipping"! Anyway, would I win in court for the apartment company false advertising? Thank you for any help!

Mutt · Accepted Answer

The "no pets" could be a new policy for new tenants. I've lived in places where they had a cats only policy, but many people had dogs. We found out that they use to allow dogs, but changed the policy, and had to grandfather existing dog owners. It may be the same for this place. Or maybe they just have certain apartments they don;t allow pets in, but do allow in others.

As for the dog feces, you can call the city and report it. Most communities have ordinances about cleaning up after pets. If the landlord will not enforce this, it is his responsibility to get it done. They (the city) will not go after the pet owner, but instead will fine the property owner.

But, since it sounds like you have already moved out, all this is moot. The extra fees should be explained in your lease. If not, you shouldn't have to pay.

Anonymous · Answer

I agree with the person above me...you cannot win this case and are unfortunately going to be held responsible. Although i think they can apply your security deposit to some of the fees or rent. Call a lawyer and ask about that.

It did apply just to you having no pets, not the complex.

Next time thoroughly check out a complex or an apartment, and make sure to ask questions and verify the meanings in the ad.

good luck.

davidmi711 · Answer

Unless the ad specifically states "There are no pets in this complex" then "No Pets" means YOU can not have pets. Perhaps they have decided to no longer allow pets however they still have to honor the leases they have signed with tenants that have pets.

You will not win a suit against them based on false advertising.

Anonymous · Answer

False advertising is a Civil Matter, not a Criminal Offence. Simples...

youryahoobuddy · Answer

not nescesarily. you may get it plus some others. like failing to comply with housing rules.

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landlord false advertising?

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