#LandlordIssues #LegalAdviceNeeded #TenantsRights #TenantHelp
Hey everyone, I really need some advice on a sticky situation I just walked into. 😣 I came back home to find out that all my belongings were missing – my bed, TVs, clothes, you name it – all gone. And get this, I never received any eviction notice or warning from my landlord at Golden Rule Estates here in Lawton, Oklahoma. Turns out my neighbor mentioned that my landlord was the culprit and had been giving away and dumping my stuff. 😠
Here’s what I’ve done so far:
– Tried reaching out to the office manager with no luck.
– Called non-emergency dispatch to look into the situation since I can’t get ahold of my landlord and was blindsided by the eviction.
I really could use some advice on what steps to take next and if I have a good case for legal action. 🤔 Any suggestions or similar experiences to share? I’d greatly appreciate any help you can offer! Thank you in advance! 🙏
Don’t take your neighbor’s word for it. As of this moment, all you really know is that your belongings have been stolen.
Get police out there ASAP and file a report. Only describe the facts to them, what you actually know. Let law enforcement do the investigating, including talking to your neighbors. If local law enforcement drags their feet, go to their station and ask to speak to someone in a position of authority.
Take photos/videos of the condition of the property as it is right now.
Start making a list of everything you know is missing. If you eventually have to sue, you’ll need a detailed list anyway.
If you have renter’s insurance, start the claim process. If you recover your items you’ll be able to withdraw the claim.
Good move calling the police. I would also start reaching out to churches or other charities about refurnishing your new space. You may be able to use the police report to recollect your items from the dump. Idk you might be able to just pick them up, but I imagine having the document would help you avoid being charged.
Good luck. I’m really sorry you’re going through this.
If you have rental insurance remember that it’s for situations just like this one. It’s not likely you’ll get your things back.
This is attorney territory.
>If a landlord wrongfully removes or excludes a tenant from possession of a dwelling unit, the tenant may recover possession by a proceeding brought in a court of competent jurisdiction, or terminate the rental agreement after giving notice of such intention to the landlord, and in either case recover an amount not more than twice the average monthly rental, or twice his actual damages, whichever is greater. If the rental agreement is terminated, the landlord shall return all deposits recoverable under Section 15 of this act and all prepaid and unearned rent.
[https://www.oscn.net/applications/oscn/DeliverDocument.asp?CiteID=71772](https://www.oscn.net/applications/oscn/DeliverDocument.asp?CiteID=71772)
You weren’t evicted, you were straight up robbed.
How long were you gone?