Q: Hello, My landlord increased the rent by over 30% after a late payment. Is it legal to change the monthly rent?
My landlord increased my monthly rent by about $500 for making a late rent payment. I understand that they can only impose a late fee around 5%. Is it legal to alter the monthly amount due in the middle of a lease?
A: The landlord must follow the lease. He may not change it for his convenience, and he may not eject without court process. Depending on your county, he must file a late rent suit between 3 and 5 times before you will be unable to redeem by paying the provided late rent. Perhaps you should see a lawyer, but that may cost more money than you wish to pay.
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