Electronic Signatures

[littledip]

The landlord faxed me an unsigned copy of the lease with a cover letter stating "please sign and fax back and mail the executed copy to... " I did not agree with some of the terms of the lease, spoke of some changes and received a new un-signed copy of the lease. I told him I would sign it and fax it back but would not send the executed copy back until I appproved of the condition of the apartment because the lease stated "as-is condition". He failed to have the apartment ready at the time the lease was to begin so I did not give him the executed copy of the lease. Now he is holding back $1050 from me stating that advertising and costs to re-rent the place. Also, his son decided to take my apartment and rent his the very next day.
This was for Nassau County New York
Am I liable for this?
Michele

[aaron]

You are stating that you did sign it and fax back a signed copy?

[littledip]

Yes, but his cover letter specifically stated please sign and fax back and mail the executed copy to....
He also told me verbally that the original one had to be received for it to be executed.
Now of course his story is different.

[Mr. Knowitall]

Whether you hold the original or he holds the original, he has a signed copy and you did sign the lease.