The apartment complex I live in (Illinois) has some weird things going on that I suspect are borderline illegal. Residents have only one option for TV, internet and phone. We can only use Dish network for TV, AT&T for phone service and some weirdo unknown company for high speed internet. The internet sucks. In the complex, all the residents share 3 T1 lines and it's out more than it's on. Not to mention, the prices are outrageous. I tried calling Comcast but they're restricted from the area where I live. Is all this legal? Don't consumers (residents in this case), have a legal right to use whatever company they want for this kind of service instead of being forced to use a specific company?
2006-12-06 01:56:35 · 3 answers · asked by Kate 3 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
First, re-read the rental contract you signed when you moved in.
There may or may not be wiggle-room for you to voice your concerns/complaints, and possibly get what you need/want.
Next, check with your city councilor and ask them who oversees the rules and regulations that apartment complexes must abide by.
By then, you should have enough of an understanding of what you can or cannot request or change.
And if you still feel boxed in, then its time to lobby support from your fellow residents - you'll need to organize a group to present requests to the apt. manager.
If changes are not forthcoming, then take it to the owner/s of the apt. complex.
2006-12-06 02:03:52 · answer #1 · answered by docscholl 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It could depend upon the wording of the contract. I have seen some communities where similar systems exist as an offer to the people who live there, but when they force you to use the services they may have gone too far.
It can also depend upon the nature of the company which is leasing to you.
In general, in situations where the Federal Trade Commission has jurisdiction, it can be illegal to 'tie' a client to unwanted and unrelated services or products.
IBM got into federal trouble years ago because they wouold only rent their computers to you in those days, and only IF you also took their software. Clear tieing.
Some of the car rental companies got into similar problems by misleading clients by tieing insurance purchases to the car rental.
These laws do not apply universally. Research your individual situation and try to work it out with management. If you cant, you may have other options.
2006-12-06 10:21:36 · answer #2 · answered by hls 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Call your city and ask them if it's illegal. Sometimes there are restrictions on utilities access in areas.
If your cable/internet keeps going out, call that company and demand part of your money back as you're paying for services that you aren't getting.
2006-12-06 10:05:39 · answer #3 · answered by parsonsel 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋