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  1. #1

    Default Got into Argument with Apartment Manager Over Animal Violation

    My question involves landlord-tenant law in the State of: Texas

    This past Monday, I received a note on my door saying that I violated the animal policy of the apartment. On Saturday, I had visitors that brought over a dog momentarily. For the majority of the time that the guests were here (approximately 2.5 hours), the dog was tied to the back of their truck and was therefore not in the apartment. The dog briefly entered into the apartment and just walked around on the carpet, and about 15 minutes later my guests left. Then on Monday, I got the note saying that I had to pay 100 dollars for animal violation or risk late fees.

    I called the management office, and the manager claims she was walking her dog that day and saw the guests with the pet enter into my apartment and therefore is fining me for the violation. My question is, if they have no physical proof that there was ever an animal in my apartment (the dog didn't do any damage, left no mark anywhere) would I have to pay the fine? If this were to escalate to court, what would happen? Also during the phone conversation with the apartment manager, at the spur of the moment, I admitted to my guests bringing a pet over to my apartment, is it usual for apartment managements to record calls? If not, I could just say that I never admitted my guests ever bringing an animal to the property? I don't believe there are video cameras in the complex, so I don't think they have visual evidence.

    Just want to add, when I admitted to my guests bringing a dog over, at the spur of the moment, I implied that I will pay the 100 dollar violation. But I asked them to extend the due date to the end of the month. And they promptly sent over another note stating the new due date. I'm not sure if they can claim any evidence from this?

  2. #2

    Default Re: Got into Argument with Apartment Manager Over Animal Violation

    Quote Quoting TropicalIsland
    View Post
    My question is, if they have no physical proof that there was ever an animal in my apartment (the dog didn't do any damage, left no mark anywhere) would I have to pay the fine?
    I would assume if the property manager physically saw the dog enter the apartment that would be considered proof; and if sworn too in civil\small claims court it would be accepted. If you actually have to pay a fine really depends on the wording in your lease agreement and\or any other agreements you signed when you rented the property.

  3. #3
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    Default Re: Got into Argument with Apartment Manager Over Animal Violation

    You were seen with the dog in your apartment, and you admit that you had a dog in your apartment. That's plenty of evidence.

    I cannot see your lease from where I'm sitting, so I cannot comment on whether a pet's short-term visit to the apartment would trigger the penalty.

    If you fail to pay your rent, you can expect your landlord to commence an eviction action based upon your nonpayment. Nobody here is going to tell you to lie in court.

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