Yahoo Answers is shutting down on May 4th, 2021 (Eastern Time) and beginning April 20th, 2021 (Eastern Time) the Yahoo Answers website will be in read-only mode. There will be no changes to other Yahoo properties or services, or your Yahoo account. You can find more information about the Yahoo Answers shutdown and how to download your data on this help page.

Becca asked in Society & CultureEtiquette · 1 decade ago

Maintenance guy bursts in while I am undressing?

Ok so earlier today I am in my apartment and one of the maintenace men just walks into my apartment!! Are they allowed to do this? I don't know if he knocked or not becuase I had my headphones on (and was dancing) but I really don't care if he did knock I was sooo pissed! He said carpet maintenace but I did not request for that at all! Not only that, I was in the middle of changing clothes so I literally had on just underwear and a very see thru tshirt so basically I was half naked! I was so pissed I could not even see straight. I could even tell that he was trying not to laugh. After I told him to leave I called the front office and told them what happened and the front office guy was like "oh sorry for the misunderstanding". Misunderstanding my ***! This is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to me. What should I do? Should I let this go or take further action?

10 Answers

Relevance
  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    Well, if you're as pissed and offended as you say you are, than no, you shouldn't let it go.

    If it was no big deal, than yes, but that doesn't seem to be the case here.

    Anyway, just because someone knocks (or rings a bell), does not give them justification to enter your apartment. The only way this could have legitimately went down, is if it were Law Enforcement related (and even then, they usually require a WARRANT). So you have all the grounds possible to pursue this and have something done about it.

    What was the guy's reaction? I mean, like did he just stand and watch you or did he try to get your attention? What did he do after you noticed him? Did he say anything or do anything, or did he just end up leaving? Have you ever seen this guy before and do you think it might be possible that he had more in mind than "maintenance"? All these factors will assist you in the matter as well.

    Take it to some sort of management, with both the apartment building and the maintenance company (if they're no the same).

    How did this person get in? Was the door unlocked and he just let himself in or did he have a key? Curious. Either way, not his apartment, you didn't invite him in.... HE was wrong in entering on "his own".

    I also agree with the person above me, install a chain lock or something of that sort on the inside of your door. You could probably even request that the owner does it at his or her cost, after this experience. It's one of the least things they could do in the meantime.

  • susan
    Lv 6
    1 decade ago

    Even if you didn't hear a knock, the second he saw that you were there, undressed or not, he should have backed out of the door. You shouldn't have had to ask him to leave, because that was obvious. A mistake is one thing, but to linger in your apartment while you are undressed is unacceptable. Many complexes give you 24 hours notice if maintenance is coming, unless it's an emergency. Check your lease. If he violated this, then you need action taken.

  • Monty
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago

    Maintenance people are SUPPOSED to maintain the apartments. Most likely he knocked and you didn't hear him over the loud music in your headphones. Because you didn't answer the knock, he probably thought you weren't home.

    If the owner of the complex requested carpet maintenance, then YOU don't have to request it. Gonna happen, anyway.

    Several times, when I'd get home from work, I'd smell something odd, and the building manager would tell me that the exterminator had been there. Or, the dishwasher, which had been broken, was now in working condition. Etc. I paid my rent, they kept my apartment in good repair.

    Yeah, they're supposed to keep things in good repair. I don't think there is any "action" you could take that would benefit you. Forget it.

  • 1 decade ago

    The timing is unfortunate, but I think the main issue is the unauthorized entry in to your apartment, regardless of your state of dress! If I understand it, entry can only be gained by your permission, or perhaps with some significant advance notice being given to you.

    Depending on where you live, what they did might even be illegal. Most states have landlord/tenant legislation that you can read to see what the laws in your area are.

    I don't know what your recourse is, or what you could expect other than an apology, but I would definitely pursue it if it were me.

  • How do you think about the answers? You can sign in to vote the answer.
  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    Hell no, don't let it go! Take this further than just the people at the front office. Send a letter (certified, return receipt requested) to the owner of your apartment building. That is total b.s.!!!

    If I were you, I'd also intall a chain lock on the inside of the door.

  • Jm e
    Lv 6
    1 decade ago

    First, I would initiate a formal complaint with management. Most states have a law requiring advance notice of non-emergency entrance to a rental unit. Let management know that you won't tolerate it. You may also want to call the police and report them for breaking and entering. Even if they have a key to get it, they can't just barge in any time they want. Press charges.

  • 1 decade ago

    u dont need 2 take furda actions cus wat will it benefit u if u do dat.u knw u jst have 2 let it go cus like u said he did knock and u didnt reply,well its a big clanger dat he did but u jst hace 2 let it go and thank God he did not rape u

  • 1 decade ago

    if the office don't do any thing wright a letter to the owner let them know about it, if you let them get away with it they will do it again

  • 1 decade ago

    yes they are it's their job let it go put a chain on the door, no more embarrassing moments

  • 1 decade ago

    let it go and go on.

Still have questions? Get your answers by asking now.