What to do about getting compensation for labor provided?

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What to do about getting compensation for labor provided?

My husband and I were recently renting a place with an option for contract for deed after a year. While renting the roof needed repair. The landlord supplied the materials, but as for labor of fixing the roof he provided himself and his “kids” and my husband and his father. Towards the end of the “lease” the landlord told us that $600 earned from my husband and his father’s labor would be put as a down payment. As things worked out, the landlord decided not to sell, and the rent would increase but the $600 owed would be split in half and go towards rent for the next two months. After he told us this, we gave our 30 day notice to evacuate the place. We told him that the $600 is still owed to us for the labor, he said that it was only for a down payment if we bought the place. Are we entitled to the $600?

Asked on October 14, 2012 under Real Estate Law, South Dakota

Answers:

FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 11 years ago | Contributor

Fro what you have written the former landlord is obligated to your husband for $600 in labor provided for the roof repair regardless of the down payment issues. I would write the former landlord a letter demanding payment by a set date. Keep a copy of the letter for future use and need.

If the due date comes and goes without payment, your legal recourse seems to be small claims court.


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