I own a 2 family apartment and live in another city in MA but do not own any other property. I returned my tenants security deposit balance by itemizing the damages within 30 days of move-out. they damaged the oven and called utility co. to report a gas leak and the gas co. service person gave a condemnation notice to the tenant to replace it. The notice was not given/informed to the Lessor any point of the time because of their negligence. The tenant sent a demand letter stating that they are not resonsible for any of the damages and additional rent.
(1) Since i am not considered to be engaged in a trade or business and I am I subject to consumer act?
(2) Can I send the receipts/bills after getting the demand letter?
(3) Can I charge additional rent if they lived in the apt for 7 days after the lease period?
(4) Can I charge for additional month rent since sufficient notice was not given by the tenant?
(5) Can I charge for the repair/replacement cost of the gas oven due to tenant negligence to inform me/give notice given by the gas co.?
Pls clarify. Your prompt response is much appreciated.
thanks
Landlord and 93A
All of your questions are answered in other parts of this Discussion Forum. The one you REALLY need to worry about is the Chapter 93A demand letter. Unless he lives in a two or three unit building with his tenants (and does not own any other apartment buildings), Chapter 93A is applicable to landlords in MA.