Chicago, IL asked in Collections, Consumer Law and Landlord - Tenant for Texas

Q: Landlord sold illegal and invalid debt to collection agency. Best way to clear credit? I currently live out of state.

I moved out of an apartment in El Paso on 30 June 2021. I had a move-out inspection with an employee of the apartment complex and wasn't notified of any issues.

On 8 February 2022, I was emailed an itemized list of damages for the El Paso property. I disagree with all of these damages and it seems like they also violated the Texas 30 day timeline of the notification.

In February of 2022, I sent several emails and called the landlord. I disputed the assessments of damages, requested my deposit back, and told them they violated the Texas Property Code 30 day requirement. They finally told me to send an email to their manager, which I did, and never heard back.

On 23 June 2022, I received notice from a collection agency that the landlord had sold my debt to them. I sent a request for verification and stated I disputed this debt. They sent me back the lease and list of "damages." They listed this on my credit report as “Account previously in dispute-now resolved."

1 Lawyer Answer
Jaime Victor Papa
Jaime Victor Papa
Answered
  • Plano, TX
  • Licensed in Texas

A: You may have a claim. I need to learn more.

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