HELP! Moved into apartment without lease for 2 days one night and did not pay yet. I want to move out?

Question

The landlord is always calling me wanting to know where I am, what time am I not there and wants to know my daily business. He also said he could go into the apartment whenever he wants to. I could pay rent with personal checks. He asked me to pay rent in cash tonight but not check. The banks closed at 3, I was at work until 4pm and was unable to get cash. He said "Dont let it happen again!" I told him "I need to pay you with my check" and he changed the subject. I do not feel comfortable about this and would like to move out now. He has not arrived to pick up my check yet. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

Move out if you're already feeling uncomfortable.  You should pay in check to have a paper trail that you've paid rent.  Since there's no lease, there aren't really any rules.  Leave. Now.

Answer 2

Move.  Now.  There's no lease.  Let him chase you if he thinks he has a legal right to rent.

Just get out - this situation stinks.

Answer 3

If you do leave, I would do so quickly.

In many states, you are considered month to month if you are not on a lease and you are required to give 30 days notice, which generally starts at the next rental period. So if you've paid August, you may be liable for September.

Thing is, if you don't pay it, that is all you are liable for and the landlord will have to sue you to get it. It will cost him more to file than he will get out of it.

If you move without paying anything, he can sue you in some states, but it won't be in his interest to do so. I would speak with an attorney if you can.

Answer 4

There's stuff you are leaving out here. If he asks any personal questions simply tell him that is not a topic for discussion.

As far as rent, simply hand him a check and say "thank you very much, I NEVER pay in cash." How he handles it is his business. If he doesn't want checks tell him you'll be happy to move.

Tell him you need 24 hour advance notice for any entry into your living space and you will call 911 and report any intrusion as a criminal act. Keep your front door chained when you are home.