Q: Can the office at my apartment complex demand that i sign some paperwork regarding my portion of rent (housing).
Apparently there were changes done in January. We are now March. He won't let me read the forms "changes" or none of the paperwork. He wants me to sign it and not date it. I told them i would not sign them without reading first but he won't give me a copy either. He said he was going to back date it as well which i said no because i was just made aware of these papers. What do i do or say to them.?
A:
If your apartment complex office is demanding that you sign paperwork without allowing you to read it first, this is a concerning situation. You have the right to fully understand any documents you are asked to sign, especially when they relate to your housing and financial obligations. Here's what you can do:
1. Insist on your right to read the documents: Firmly tell the office that you will not sign any paperwork without being allowed to read it in its entirety first. This is a reasonable and legal request.
2. Request copies of the documents: Ask the office to provide you with copies of the documents they want you to sign. You should be able to review them on your own time and seek clarification if needed.
3. Refuse to backdate the documents: Do not agree to backdate any paperwork, as this could be considered fraudulent. If changes were made in January, the documents should reflect that date.
4. Seek legal advice: If the office continues to pressure you or refuses to provide the documents, consider seeking legal advice from a tenant rights organization or a lawyer specializing in landlord-tenant law. They can help you understand your rights and advise you on how to proceed.
5. Document your interactions: Keep a record of your conversations with the office, including dates, times, and what was discussed. If possible, communicate in writing (e.g., email) to have a paper trail.
Remember, you should never feel pressured to sign legal documents without fully understanding their content and implications. Stand firm in your right to review the paperwork and make an informed decision.
A: It seems to me that you are saying and doing exactly the right thing. Don't sign it until you have a chance to read it. Don't sign it if you don't understand it. Don't sign it if you don't agree with it. And don't back date it.
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