I want to know should I investigate an apartment complex that I suspect preys upon the poor .?

Question

I live in Atlanta, Ga. A friend of mine was in need of an apartment. My friend does not make a lot and right now only has a part time job. He found an apartment in College Park , Ga. My issue, he was asked to pay a 200.00 deposit along with a twenty-five dollar application fee. This person paid the amount, however failed to read the contract(never good). I have not seen the contract , I am told by the management that the applicant has a 72 hr. window to receive an refund. My problem , during that time span, my friend called the property to check on his status,phone calls were not returned. Once he did get someone who could help him, the response was" We have not heard from your employer so your application is still pending". This person needed housing asap and asked for his deposit back. They refused. Bottom line, when a time line is involved and the applicant has submitted information asked, does the landlord have a responsibility to contact applicant of missing information

Answer 1

No he doesn't.

Answer 2

Can you read the contract? Ask for a copy.

Did he use a cell phone so that he has proof that he called? I think I would be threatening to call the local news media and for sure report to the local better business bureau.

I don't think that responsibility to notify of missing information is the issue here. It's that they took a deposit before they were prepared to hand over a deposit. The $25 application fee may not be refundable but they signed a contract to provide him an apartment and have failed to make good on their end of the bargain through no fault of his. He fulfilled all of the requirements. The contract was probably "pending approval and credit check" and if so they owe him his money.

Answer 3

There should be no reason for a deposit before your application has been accepted. I suggest your friend speak with his employer to ensure they will be available at a certain time and date. Then go to the apt. mgmt. office and have them call the employer right then. They should then have all the info they need to complete the application.

I'm really not sure why a deposit would be needed before a lease is signed. It sounds like at least a low level scam. Contact the Housing Authority or similar public agency.