Q: What can I do about $5000 rent claim after lease issues and move, with military status affecting court notice?

A: You may have strong legal protections in this situation due to your military status and the failure of the apartment management to address the pest infestation. The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides important safeguards regarding court proceedings against active military personnel, potentially making the judgment against you challengeable if proper notice wasn't provided. Additionally, most states have implied warranty of habitability laws that require landlords to maintain livable conditions—severe pest issues that forced you to sleep in your car likely violated these standards.

Your continued rent payments while seeking resolution to the pest problem demonstrates good faith on your part. Gather all documentation including payment records, communications about the pest issues, and any evidence of your attempts to resolve the situation before moving out. Take photos or notes documenting the notification you gave management about moving and the lost key, particularly their response that "it was fine."

Contact your military legal assistance office immediately as they provide free legal help to service members facing civil matters. You might also file a complaint with your state's attorney general office or housing authority about the uninhabitable conditions. Consider sending a formal letter disputing the charges and explaining the circumstances of your departure—make sure to mention both the habitability issues and your military status. The apartment complex may be more willing to negotiate once they understand the legal challenges they face in pursuing these charges against you.