2 Questions Regarding My New Apartment?

Question

I signed a year lease for a 2br duplex for Aug. 1st.

I also gave a non-refundable deposit.

I received a voice message from my new landlord asking

If I’d like to clean up and she would give me $50.

Then she says… When I used the maid service they charged me

$250.00.

I am on fire!!!! I have to move out of my current apartment and clean

And will be charged for things that I did not clean. Why would I want to move

Into a place that I have to clean.

My first question is:

1. Can I back out of this lease? I haven’t moved in and it sounds like it’s not going to

Be ready?

2. What do you answer that question (Do I want to clean for $50) without being sarcastic?

Answer 1

Be truthful. “I thought it was standard that the unit would be cleaned prior to my arrival. Is there something in the lease where I agreed to another term?”

Answer 2

1) You can't back out of the lease unless the apartment isn't ready on August 1st.  In other words, you can't back out early because you THINK it won't be ready.

2) Just say that you would prefer she have the apartment professionally cleaned.  Tell her you won't have time to clean it yourself because you'll be busy cleaning your old place and getting ready to move.