Q: Can my landlord keep me from getting my rv ?
I rented a lot for 300 per month. I got behind a month and the landlord said I had to leave but would not let me take my rv. There is not written lease agreement other than a note she sent to the food stamp office for me.
A:
Based on the information you've provided, it seems that your landlord is not allowed to keep you from retrieving your RV, even if you are behind on rent. Here are a few key points to consider:
1. No written lease: Without a written lease agreement, the landlord has limited legal standing to withhold your personal property (in this case, your RV).
2. Landlord's lien: Some states allow landlords to place a lien on a tenant's property for unpaid rent. However, this usually requires a court order and specific legal procedures to be followed.
3. Illegal eviction: If your landlord is preventing you from accessing your property without a court order, this could be considered an illegal eviction or "self-help" eviction, which is not permitted in most jurisdictions.
4. Personal property: Generally, landlords cannot seize or withhold a tenant's personal property without proper legal action.
Here are some steps you can take:
1. Communicate with your landlord in writing (email or text message) to request access to your RV and arrange a time to retrieve it.
2. If your landlord refuses, consult with a local tenants' rights organization or a legal aid clinic for advice specific to your situation and jurisdiction.
3. If necessary, you may need to involve law enforcement to help you retrieve your RV, especially if you believe your landlord is illegally preventing you from accessing your property.
Remember, while you may owe unpaid rent, your landlord must follow proper legal channels to recover the money owed and cannot simply seize your personal property without a court order.
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