• cosmic_slate@dmv.social
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    10 months ago

    Sure if you have time and money to throw at the problem, but lawyers aren’t cheap and you need a strong argument.

    Resorting to internet-tough-guy “just sue them” might feel good to say but it’s impractical and, quite frankly, incredibly naive advice.

    A number of states don’t have many prohibitions on what fees get charged as long as it gets disclosed and is done so fairly and with “reasonable” (whatever that is) notice.

    So what are you going to do? Sign the lease with the fee clearly stated then roll the dice? If you lose, now you’re out the cost of a lawyer, time out from work, stuck in a year at a place that’s sketchy, and the bonus consolation prize of being forced to pay for internet that you don’t want.

    Your best bet is to not sign a lease (or renew) from a property like that and leave a 1 star review saying they force you to buy internet even if you don’t want it from a provider.

    I’ve gone through disputing fees from a landlord and required the use of a lawyer. Had it went to court, it would have been a substantial headache to deal with.

    • mindbleach
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      10 months ago

      As opposed to moving, in this market, which is cheap and easy.

      • cosmic_slate@dmv.social
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        10 months ago

        Do you know how much it costs if you have to get a lawyer out of pocket?

        A few hours of time easily gets you a few guys and a moving truck for a couple hours.