If I am disputing the severity of damage of a refrigerator with an apartment, can they send me to collections?
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If I am disputing the severity of damage of a refrigerator with an apartment, can they send me to collections?
I say it is normal wear and tear and they are saying it is excessive. There is a small dent to a stainless steel fridge and a few paltry scratches.
Asked on October 11, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Texas
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Yes, they can send you to collections. Then, if you do not pay, the collections agency or the landlord could sue you to recover the money; that is the only way they force you to pay, if you refuse to do so--by suing you and proving in court (bya "preponderance of the evidence," or that it is more likely than not) that you did the damage and that it rises to the level of exceeding normal wear and tear.
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