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My landlord has given keys to my apartment to 7 other people to use the laundry. (self.legaladvice)

gavekeysimdan が 投稿

I am renting a single-family single-story house with a basement. The basement has a laundry room in it. I am the only inhabitant right now if that matters (though my SO will be joining me here in December).

The landlord owns two other houses. One has 3 apartments and a laundry room. The other is a duplex with no laundry room. Previously the people who lived in both of those places all used the laundry room in the 3-apartment one which I believe had at least two washers and dryers. However there was recently a fire in the laundry room and the landlord is fixing it himself. He says it will take a long time to fix.

In the mean time he gave keys to 7 different people to my house so that they can go down into my basement and use the laundry machines that are there. In fact I didn't even find out until I came home and heard someone down there. He's lucky he explained fast. I called the landlord and sure enough he says he gave keys to all his other residents "temporarily" but that he gave them explicit instructions to only go to the basement and no where else. He says he has no other option because their leases say he is responsible for the washer and dryer for them to use, and he can't get their laundry room back in shape very fast, so he has no choice but have them use mine.

My lease doesn't say that I have exclusive use of the basement, but I thought it was implied, especially considering that to get to the basement you have to come in my entryway, through my living room, through my kitchen, through my back hall and then downstairs. To get to the laundry room you go through my office and family room. So that's someone walking all over my house basically.

The landlord says it will be "maybe 3 months to half a year" and can't give any more specifics.

What rights do I have? Am I screwed since the lease doesn't say he CAN'T do this?

If I DO have any rights how do I enforce them? Change the locks anyway?

Also I am in Iowa City, Iowa, if it matters.

Edit: If it's not obvious I'm uncomfortable with this for a number of reasons. First of all because I like my privacy and don't want people walking through my house any time they want. Second because I own plenty of electronics and other valuables and I don't want to risk having them stolen (some of the people he gave keys to are not exactly upstanding citizens). In addition, 7 people doing laundry in my house starts to limit when I can use it myself - it has been 5 days so far and every single day when I have gotten home from work and gone to start a load, someone had laundry going. So all of those reasons are why I feel this is inappropriate.

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[–]Ramady 544ポイント545ポイント  (75子コメント)

Jesus. This isn't okay at all. His issues with their laundry room aren't your problem, you're paying to have the house. Even your landlord can't come into the house without proper notice and/or your permission.

You should contact a local attorney ASAP. There might be a free clinic that can help if money is an issue.

Good luck.

E: next time you see someone there, tell them to leave or you'll call the cops. They're trespassing, even if the landlord gave them permission.

[–]gavekeysimdan[S] 138ポイント139ポイント  (60子コメント)

Thanks. I can probably afford a lawyer depending on how much it will cost.

What would be the actual process that gets him to stop? Taking him to court?

Edit: lawyer not landlord

[–]Napalmenator 257ポイント258ポイント  (6子コメント)

Likely a very threatening letter from an attorney, or phone call. If the landlord refused, then court.

Edit: for the love of all things reddit please update us.

[–]alaijmw 94ポイント95ポイント  (5子コメント)

Edit: for the love of all things reddit please update us.

Can we just put it in the terms of service for posting here? Anything outrageous and clear cut against OP requires updates!

/then we'd sue anyone who didn't update. And they'd have to post asking about it!

[–]rabidstoat 18ポイント19ポイント  (4子コメント)

/then we'd sue anyone who didn't update.

Hrm, emotional distress. Given the amount of anguish I've seen expressed about the infamous land-locked neighbor post, I'd say that seems legit.

[–]SKYPUNCH_FUCKLORD 3ポイント4ポイント  (0子コメント)

We will never know

[–]TheHYPO 0ポイント1ポイント  (2子コメント)

Link to "infamous" post please?

[–]agilla 1ポイント2ポイント  (1子コメント)

Original post

Update

[–]SharpTenor 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

Anytime someone mentions /u/mattolol 's thread I have to check back again.

[–]Just_a_prank_bro 119ポイント120ポイント  (11子コメント)

This sounds like a huge safety and security issue. You should tell the landlord you're changing the locks, demand that he not give out keys to your place, and you will call the cops on any trespassers. You should tell him you'll hold him responsible for anything that maybe missing or damaged because of him letting other people in your home.

And like Ramady said, get a lawyer ASAP.

[–]P-01S 26ポイント27ポイント  (10子コメント)

Can a renter change the locks?

[–]Just_a_prank_bro 61ポイント62ポイント  (9子コメント)

If they give the landlord a copy of the key when asked; and keep the old locks just in-case the landlord tries to be an ass about it.

[–]AFK-BRB[🍰] 21ポイント22ポイント  (0子コメント)

I once changed the locks on my rental house after it became obvious that my landlord had been letting himself in to look around. I didn't tell him I'd done it, and he didn't ask me. I replaced the original locks when I moved out. When I handed back my key, he told me he thought he'd lost his copy. Nope. Fuck you, old man.

[–]Shinhan 4ポイント5ポイント  (7子コメント)

Then there's no point in changing locks because landlord was the one distributing the keys. At least not until landlord agrees not to distribute any more keys (which might require a court order).

[–]nitpickr 26ポイント27ポイント  (6子コメント)

You can get key systems that require the master key before a copy can be created. The master key in that case will reside with OP - Essentially it's just a code that they feed the computer to produce the key.

[–]LOOK_AT_MY_POT 9ポイント10ポイント  (5子コメント)

Can you explain how that works? From my limited understanding, it seems impossible. If I have a copy of the key (as the landlord, so not the "master copy"), what is stopping me from taking it to one of those "cut your own key" kiosks and making an exact copy of the key I have in my hand? Are the blanks odd sized/shaped? I just don't see how this could work. Since you seem to know about them, could you clarify for me please?

[–]lurking-keymaster 16ポイント17ポイント  (4子コメント)

IANAL but I do work in keys.

"Uncopiable" keys use patented machines to cut them, with specifically-shaped blanks and cut patterns that can't be replicated without the correct machinery. The authorised cutters will have a register of keyholders and will either verify identity/address, or use a password system.

[–]LOOK_AT_MY_POT 5ポイント6ポイント  (1子コメント)

Ok, so they use different keys and different machines than the kiosk does. That does make sense. Thanks for the info!

[–]Junkmans1 3ポイント4ポイント  (1子コメント)

"Uncopiable" keys use patented machines to cut them

How much does a set of these locks (figure one exterior door set) run in comparison to a standard set of locks which run around $30 to $50?

[–]Ramady 83ポイント84ポイント  (4子コメント)

This is pretty egregious. I'm honestly not sure what the steps would be, that's why I think a local lawyer is a good idea.

[–]gavekeysimdan[S] 30ポイント31ポイント  (3子コメント)

Okay thanks!

[–]swalsh411 144ポイント145ポイント  (1子コメント)

Absolutely contact a lawyer. But in the meantime don't let anybody else in your house and kick them out immediately if they come in without you knowing it. You should also put a sign on the door that nobody is allowed in to use the laundry, they will be considered trespassers if they do, and you will call the police.

[–]Ramady 44ポイント45ポイント  (0子コメント)

Rock solid advice.

[–]malachi23 35ポイント36ポイント  (0子コメント)

Is your landlord paying your water and electric bills? If not, make sure to send him the high bills you're going to get for having 7 extra people using the W/D.

Post a notice on the door of "This is a private residence subject to a lease. No trespassing. No entry. If you are not specifically invited in by the lease holder (your name) then the police will be called on you."

Get cameras if you can.

Put a lock on your breaker box and turn off the breaker feeding the washer/drier when you leave.

Of all the landlord-related posts I've seen on this sub, this is the most egregious violation by a landlord yet. This is beyond the pale.

[–]Hyndis 56ポイント57ポイント  (12子コメント)

In the meantime, do you have renter's insurance? If not, I strongly recommend that you get renter's insurance right now.

Its remarkably cheap for what coverage you get, often <$15/mo. You can apply for it online and it takes a matter of minutes. Go to your car insurance company's website and they probably also offer renter's insurance.

If something does go wrong or missing, renter's insurance can help cover any losses.

[–]gavekeysimdan[S] 48ポイント49ポイント  (8子コメント)

I do have it but obviously I would prefer to fix this before I have to USE it.

[–]ultralame 51ポイント52ポイント  (3子コメント)

1) sign outside the door, no trespassing; the landlord was in error.

2) change your locks.

3) call the LL, tell him the locks are changed. Tell him you will give him a key. Tell him that no one is to enter your residence, under any circumstances. Tell him you are contacting a lawyer and that you know your tenant rights have been violated. Let him know that you are happy not to move forward with any legal proceedings as long as he refrains from giving the key away again.

4) call the lawyer anyway

[–]sowellfan -2ポイント-1ポイント  (2子コメント)

I say nope on the "give him a key" part. This landlord has shown himself to be extraordinarily stupid. If he realizes his mistake on this thing, then maybe he gets a key after it blows over. But til I see some real intelligence from this guy, I think I'd go with the principal that, if the landlord needs access to the property, he needs to come by when you're there.

[–]ultralame 6ポイント7ポイント  (0子コメント)

Not giving him the key could be basis for an eviction. He may be wrong about entering, but that is a separate issue.

[–]elf25 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

does the lease say, "can't change locks."? if you do change the locks, deduct that cost from your rent and reluctantly, after a few days/week(s) provide a LL a key.

[–]ew73 29ポイント30ポイント  (2子コメント)

Life Pro Tip: Always get Renter's / Homeowner's insurance (whichever applies to your situation).

[–]Grim-Sleeper 13ポイント14ポイント  (0子コメント)

Or home owner's insurance.

And an umbrella policy.

You hopefully never will have to make any claims. That's why coverage is pretty good for a very small premium. But if you do have to make a claim, these policies provide a lot of benefit. They are the text-book example for the type of insurance that is worthwhile getting and where almost nobody should choose to self-insure.

[–]MiaFeyEsq 1ポイント2ポイント  (0子コメント)

OP just said that he/she has it.

[–]danthemanaus 10ポイント11ポイント  (0子コメント)

OP just check your policy doesn't exclude claims against theft or loss when there hasn't been evidence of forced entry. I'm from Australia and some of our policies explicitly do this but usually buried in the fine print.

[–]barbequeninja 24ポイント25ポイント  (1子コメント)

Renters insurance might not cover theft if the thief has a key. Many policies are written that way.

[–]Lozzif 2ポイント3ポイント  (0子コメント)

About to say that's how it is in Australia. My companies policy has a 'forced entry' requirement for renters.

[–]TheDude-Esquire 2ポイント3ポイント  (0子コメント)

You don't necessarily need an attorney for this. Local housing courts often will do arbitration, and they are also small claims courts anyways, so attorneys aren't needed. I would go there first and talk to a clerk about filing an action against.

[–]sowellfan 2ポイント3ポイント  (0子コメント)

Don't wait for court - this is an big-time problem right now, and courts take weeks at least, I'm quite sure. Change the locks, tell him that he can't send people over to do the laundry, etc. And tell the people that they are not welcome, and you'll be calling the police if they come over again. In fact, might be a great idea to go down to the local police station and let them know about the situation, and that you may well be calling them for trespassing complaints. It'd be good for them to have some background record before the cop shows up at your door for the first time.

Lastly, regarding the laundry room with the problems, I'm pretty sure there's no legal precedent saying that the landlord has to give them a place to do laundry. He's obligated to make repairs to the laundry room in short order, I'd think. But in the meantime, laundromats are the solution - not your basement. If he feels like he's on the hook with these other tenants, he solves that with a few rolls of quarters for laundry.

The fact that you signed a lease for the rental of the house implies strongly that you get exclusive use of the basement. I mean, it might not state it explicitly, but does it state explicitly that you get exclusive use of the bedrooms? Probably not, but that doesn't mean that other people are allowed to come take a nap when they want to.

[–]Dr_Streetmentioner 22ポイント23ポイント  (11子コメント)

Just talk to the landlord before getting a lawyer!!!

You don't have to immediately get a lawyer for everything. You're going to put your landlord on the defensive if you show up with a lawyer/have one send a letter. Go tell your landlord this isn't okay, his/her other leases aren't your problem, and you want the locks changed on your apartment (once folks have keys it's over. Copies cost $1 and take 5 minutes). If your landlord won't play nice then tell him you're going to get a lawyer. If he/she still won't cooperate then actually go get a lawyer.

This will hopefully 1) solve the problem in a cordial manner and 2) save you money.

[–]jellicle 45ポイント46ポイント  (9子コメント)

I think putting the landlord on the defensive is sort of the point here.

[–]Dr_Streetmentioner 4ポイント5ポイント  (8子コメント)

That's just a bad way to approach situations initially. Why start out hostile? Be ready for that option, sure, but asking nicely is free and works sometimes.

[–]throughactions 43ポイント44ポイント  (7子コメント)

The OP already reached out to the landlord, and he basically said 'tough'.

[–]Kamelasa 0ポイント1ポイント  (6子コメント)

Yeah, the OP reached out for information, but I would definitely call him again to read the riot act, and only then contact a lawyer if he was going to kick up a fuss about having the locks changed. And the landlord should pay for the change, as well. He created this idiotic sitiouation.

[–]Gatorgirl007 25ポイント26ポイント  (5子コメント)

A lawyer will let him know exactly how the landlord is violating the law and the lease. OP can't exactly read the riot act to the landlord because his online friends told him what the landlord is doing is wrong.

[–]TheHYPO 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

Just out of curiosity, I'm wondering, if the landlord has five other rental properties that are out a laundry room right now, perhaps the landlord would prefer to alienate this one tenant than potentially be sued by five others? Perhaps the landlord sees trampling on the OP's lease as a necessary cost of doing business to avoid losing five tenants at the expense of one, even though he knows he's in the wrong.

It's more likely the landlord knows he's doing something illegal but it's the lesser of two evils given he is between a rock and a hard place.

That said, perhaps he's not considering his third option which is to pay someone to fix the laundry quickly to avoid losing any tenants, but it's possible the guy simply doesn't have the money to do that.

For the record, I'm not defending the landlord's actions in any way. But if his thought process is as above, being cordial is not likely going to get anywhere. threatening a lawsuit might not even get anywhere.

[–]Anonymoose15 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

you also have to understand that the landlord will most likely not renew your lease

[–]myexpertthrowaway -2ポイント-1ポイント  (0子コメント)

I don't think the process needs to be that difficult. Just bar the door from the inside if you have access from elsewhere through the house.

[–]Junkmans1 -4ポイント-3ポイント  (1子コメント)

I'd start out with talking to the landlord rather than calling a lawyer first. Why not see if you can resolve this without spending the money on a lawyer.

Let the landlord know this is not acceptable and that your lease does not allow this.

Your locks have to be changed now. The landlord should be responsible for this, but they don't do it immediately then do it yourself. You can take the locks off and take them to a locksmith to change (call and find out the price). Sometimes it is cheaper just to buy new locks at Home Depot or Lowes - typically around $30 each. Stick to the same brand as the old lock and it will be easier to install. If you can't do this yourself then call a locksmith. I wouldn't give a key to the landlord until he promises to obey your lease.

[–]mizmoose 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

I wouldn't give a key to the landlord until he promises to obey your lease.

You must give a key to the landlord. The landlord almost always has the right to access for emergency situations (typically, anything that might be a cause of destruction to the property, such as fire or flood).

Ex: The landlord can enter if you are not there and he has reasonable belief that a broken pipe is flooding the house.

[–]PinkPantherThemeTune 18ポイント19ポイント  (8子コメント)

Even your landlord can't come into the house without proper notice and/or your permission.

Out of interest do you know if this is true in England as well? My landlord just lets himself into the house whenever he feels like reading the meter (note that the company that provides our gas and electric already has meter-readers who come round and do this), but I'm not sure if I can ask him to stop. I only found out because I happened to be home from work one afternoon and he just unlocked the front door and came straight into the sitting room.

[–]A_Soporific 31ポイント32ポイント  (0子コメント)

Post to /r/LegalAdviceUK

They will be able to better answer your question.

[–]Nicam-76 25ポイント26ポイント  (0子コメント)

48 hrs notice required in uk

[–]expatinpa 14ポイント15ポイント  (2子コメント)

Look at the shelter site www.shelter.org.uk - they have all this information there.

[–]ExpatMeNow 7ポイント8ポイント  (1子コメント)

Thank you for this. I'm about to move to the UK and am a bit freaked out at the prospect of renting again after being a homeowner for so long. Not to mention being a expat renter at that!

[–]expatinpa 7ポイント8ポイント  (0子コメント)

The good news is: what a landlord can or cannot do is much more codified than it might be in the US. And there is a central point to help you if you encounter a moron (shelter's help line and drop in clinics). Good luck with your move - I've been telling my family that when my husband dies, I'm moving back :D

Have you considered buying in the UK?

[–]Willeth 5ポイント6ポイント  (0子コメント)

I live in the UK. I'm not a lawyer, but I believe it's 24 hours notice in all cases except emergency (water leak, etc).

[–]kentuckyfriedmeerkat 3ポイント4ポイント  (0子コメント)

Not okay, he has to give notice. https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/housing/renting-a-home/common-problems-with-renting/#h-the-landlord-s-rights-of-entry

[–]Ramady 1ポイント2ポイント  (0子コメント)

No idea, sorry. I know nothing about English law. It's certainly possible. I'd look into it.

[–]Metacl 12ポイント13ポイント  (0子コメント)

This is seriously insane. I would call the cops and lawyer up. Also, plan to move at then of your lease. The landlord sounds like a dick.

[–]Napalmenator 9ポイント10ポイント  (3子コメント)

I am guessing he could get one on contingence if the landlord owns a bunch if property.

[–]WhiteButStilHip 0ポイント1ポイント  (2子コメント)

What? Why?

[–]SexualHarasmntPanda 15ポイント16ポイント  (1子コメント)

Because depending on local laws he may be civilly liable for decent amounts of money. And if a lawyer knows this guy owns multiple properties which shows he has assets and possibly other damaged parties to go after.

[–]WhiteButStilHip 1ポイント2ポイント  (0子コメント)

Mmm, fair point. I withdraw my initial reaction

[–]jasperval 221ポイント222ポイント  (13子コメント)

The landlord cannot authorize those strangers to enter your house; even he is likely required to give you 24 hour notice before entering your house. His problems are not your problems; he can likely get a mobile trailer with a washer and dryer or reimburse them for laundromat services. He does NOT have the authority to give them keys and access to your home.

If you come across one of them, tell them they are trespassing and to leave, and to take it up with their landlord. If they refuse, call the police and have a copy of your lease.

[–]gavekeysimdan[S] 104ポイント105ポイント  (12子コメント)

Thanks. I didn't think I had the right to call the cops since I'm not the owner but I might take you up on that idea.

When I am home I keep the doors locked and chained, so even with the key they can't get in due to the chain. I had two guys yelling and banging at the door for ten minutes yesterday.

[–]Hyndis 164ポイント165ポイント  (0子コメント)

I had two guys yelling and banging at the door for ten minutes yesterday.

Put up a big sign on your door with big block letters saying that you are not open for laundry and that anyone found inside your home will be considered a trespasser.

If you ever feel that someone is trying to break into your home do not hesitate to call the police. Someone pounding on your door for ten minutes is absolutely not acceptable.

And yes, it is your home. Even your landlord has to give at least 24 hours notice to enter. Other people cannot just walk right in. Its your home. You live there. Your home is your castle. You're the king/queen of your domain.

[–]P-01S 83ポイント84ポイント  (0子コメント)

If they yell and bang on the door for ten minutes, call the police...

It does help to first explain to people that they are not to enter your home without your permission. It might not be your property, but it is legally your home.

Maybe you should inform your landlord that you are upset they did not ask you beforehand?

And be polite.

[–]Omicron777 28ポイント29ポイント  (1子コメント)

Owner or not, the owner has leased the property to you and it has become your domicile; hypothetically, you could call the police if even the landlord/owner entered your home without notice and/or a non-emergency.

[–]OneRedSent 12ポイント13ポイント  (0子コメント)

You definitely could. This happens a lot during eviction proceedings.

[–]Bunnyhat 41ポイント42ポイント  (0子コメント)

With a Valid lease you control the property. I might put up a sign explaining to the other tenants that your basement is not open for business and to contact the landlord. Call and tell the landlord this is not OK, if doesn't contact a lawyer.

[–]Ramady 102ポイント103ポイント  (3子コメント)

Shit, if I had someone in my basement without me knowing why, I'd greet them at gunpoint.

[–]LeonardoDiCatrio 34ポイント35ポイント  (0子コメント)

Oh man, I had a homeless guy come upstairs from my shared basement because the upstairs neighbors didn't lock the basement door (one led to the outside the other led to my apartment). Probably the only time I've thought having a gun would be a good idea.

[–]Bagellord 17ポイント18ポイント  (0子コメント)

I'd let the police have that duty (and I own and carry guns).

[–]manazoni1989 3ポイント4ポイント  (0子コメント)

I think that is why OP stated, "In fact I didn't even find out until I came home and heard someone down there. He's lucky he explained fast."

[–]The_Original_Gronkie 14ポイント15ポイント  (0子コメント)

two guys

This whole thing astounds me, and this comment got me wondering. What kind of rules did the landlord set about these laundry services? Did he hand out keys and say "Help yourself?" Did he set hours, or do they have 24 hour access? Did he specify that only one person may enter, or can they bring their friends along for company? How many friends are permissible? Can they park in the driveway? Do they have to be sober, or are they permitted to bring a cooler of beer along? Are they supposed to pay for these laundry services, or are you simply to handle the extra water and electric expenses yourself? Will the landlord be responsible for any missing belongings? How about any medical or legal bills incurred if one of his tenants decides to get violent with you?

Others are telling you to be polite but I wouldn't be. This idiot landlord has a problem and he's simply passed it along for you to deal with for the next six months, and he has literally put your life in danger. All he has to do is tell his other tenants that he will reimburse their laundry expense at a public laundromat. They already have to pack up their stuff and bring to your house; taking it to a laundromat won't be any increased inconvenience.

1) Put a sign on the door declaring laundry service shut down. Anyone who gives you a problem gets the cops called. Then do it.

2) Change the locks immediately. Do not give the landlord a copy until you move out. He has abused that privilege egregiously. Tell him to sue you for it.

3) Talk to a lawyer about what you are owed so far. You have been denied the comfort of your home and you have increased utility bills for starters. One free month of rent for the time you've dealt with his mess sounds right to me. If it continues into a second month, then he will be covering your rent for that month as well. Suddenly reimbursing laundry expenses won't sound so bad.

4) As much as possible, communicate with the landlord in writing (email).

5) You might want to install cameras on the front porch and in your basement in case anyone decides to break in.

Good luck and keep us updated, please.

[–]pudding7 3ポイント4ポイント  (0子コメント)

It might not be your house, but it is your home. Call the police if someone is trespassing.

[–]Personage1 1ポイント2ポイント  (0子コメント)

A lot of people are saying what to do but I thought I would add that when dealing with the neighbors, it would be advised to be nice and polite (but firm) at first. It's not their fault the landlord told them to do this and while it could be argued that they should know better, something something malice and stupidity.

The landlord I would be less polite with. Rather than "sorry about the situation but unfortunately" that I would use with the neighbors, I would jump right to the "this can not happen."

[–]swalsh411 143ポイント144ポイント  (36子コメント)

I don't know how assertive you are in real life but this is one of those times you need to be. Tell your landlord literally right now that either he takes those keys back or you are changing the locks. If he says you can't change the locks tell him to go fuck himself. If somebody is in your home, tell them to leave. Call the police if they won't. They are trespassing. Don't let this go on another minute. Please post updates if you don't mind I would like to know how this ends. This is absolutely not OK what he is doing.

[–]gavekeysimdan[S] 89ポイント90ポイント  (28子コメント)

I told him on the phone and in writing that I am NOT okay with this and as far as I understand my lease he does not have the right to do this, but he didn't do anything and continues to say it's temporary and the lease allows him to do this (by his logic if it doesn't say he can't, then he can).

Someone else said to call the police. I didn't know I could since I am not the owner but it seems like something I definitely might end up doing now that I know.

[–]A_Soporific 66ポイント67ポイント  (0子コメント)

To Clarify:

State law says that he cannot.

Right to Privacy
Under Iowa law the landlord has the right to access of the rental unit to inspect the unit, make necessary repairs, decorations, supply services, and to show the unit to prospective buyers, sellers, and tenants. Except in cases of emergency or if it is impractical to do so, the landlord must give the tenant at least 24 hours notice of his/her intention to enter the unit, and enter only at reasonable times.

If the landlord abuses the right to access, the tenant may obtain an injunction against the landlord or terminate the rental agreement if the tenant believes that his/her right to privacy is being violated. In either case, the tenant may recover actual damages of not less than an amount equal to one month's rent and reasonable attorney fees.

Here is the law raw text

562A.19 ACCESS.

  1. The tenant shall not unreasonably withhold consent to the landlord to enter into the dwelling unit in order to inspect the premises, make necessary or agreed repairs, decorations, alterations, or improvements, supply necessary or agreed services, or exhibit the dwelling unit to prospective or actual purchasers, mortgagees, tenants, workers, or contractors.

  2. The landlord may enter the dwelling unit without consent of the tenant in case of emergency.

  3. The landlord shall not abuse the right of access or use it to harass the tenant. Except in case of emergency or if it is impracticable to do so, the landlord shall give the tenant at least twenty-four hours' notice of the landlord's intent to enter and enter only at reasonable times.

  4. The landlord does not have another right of access except by court order, and as permitted by sections 562A.28 and 562A.29, or if the tenant has abandoned or surrendered the premises.

Tell him to stop, in writing. If not you have an open and shut lawsuit that you can press. He'll owe you legal fees and a not insignificant amount of money if he doesn't stop this right now.

[–]KingKidd 114ポイント115ポイント  (2子コメント)

3 months isn't temporary. 1 day is temporary. I'd be at Loews/Home Depot buying new locks and a privacy chain immediately, as well as no trespassing signs. Not sure how good you are with a drill, but doorknobs/deadbolts aren't too complicated. Keep the drill and Bill the LL for the parts after consulting an attorney.

[–]a_warm_gun 70ポイント71ポイント  (0子コメント)

Temporary doesn't matter. The landloard doesn't have the right to do this for a half second.

[–]JimtheRunner 1ポイント2ポイント  (0子コメント)

You don't even need a drill, just a screw driver. Locks are very easy to change.

[–]swalsh411 92ポイント93ポイント  (1子コメント)

You can absolutely call the police. There is an intruder in your home. Tell them there was a misunderstanding but you never gave permission for anybody to come in your house.

Did you tell your landlord you are changing the locks?

This is not your problem.

by his logic if it doesn't say he can't, then he can

Yes it does. A lease means you control the property during the terms of the lease, not him. I bet it also doesn't say he can't let his drunk friend take a poop on your kitchen table either.

[–]SexualHarasmntPanda 23ポイント24ポイント  (0子コメント)

I think that would be an equitable response in this situation.

[–]aftiggerintel 32ポイント33ポイント  (0子コメント)

With a valid lease you are the legal resident of the home. Simply because a lease doesn't explicitly exclude it doesn't mean it is all inclusive automatically. He actually has to give you 24 hours notice of his intent to enter the house. Not his 7 other tenants or anyone else he desires. You have the rights in this. I would be consulting a lawyer regarding this and maybe even the city/county building inspector considering if it is 3-6 months out for repairs, how safe is the buildings involved?

[–]CallingYouOut2 27ポイント28ポイント  (0子コメント)

Change your locks NOW... What he did was HIGHLY illegal and his issue with the washer and dryer is NOT your problem. You are under no obligation to help him out here, certainly not after he pulls this kind of BS. Just because your lease doesn't say you have exclusive use of your basement doesn't mean jack. If the only means of ingress/egress are through your living room/kitchen that means it's your space to use, unless the lease specifically states something specific about the basement. I would be dragging his ass to court so fast for violation of the lease. This is insane! Tell him if he wants people to have keys to a house he should give out is damned house key and let are your neighbors walk through HIS house when they need to do laundry. I'm literally mad for you.

[–]jasperval 20ポイント21ポイント  (0子コメント)

and continues to say it's temporary and the lease allows him to do this (by his logic if it doesn't say he can't, then he can).

This is frighteningly similar to the Homer Simpson "if I don't see it, it's not illegal" defense. This guy own how many properties?

562A.19 ACCESS.

  1. The tenant shall not unreasonably withhold consent to the landlord to enter into the dwelling unit in order to inspect the premises, make necessary or agreed repairs, decorations, alterations, or improvements, supply necessary or agreed services, or exhibit the dwelling unit to prospective or actual purchasers, mortgagees,tenants, workers, or contractors.

  2. The landlord may enter the dwelling unit without consent of the tenant in case of emergency.

  3. The landlord shall not abuse the right of access or use it to harass the tenant. Except in case of emergency or if it is impracticable to do so, the landlord shall give the tenant at least twenty-four hours' notice of the landlord's intent to enter and enter only at reasonable times.

  4. The landlord does not have another right of access except by court order, and as permitted by sections 562A.28 and 562A.29, or if the tenant has abandoned or surrendered the premises.

[–]jrussell424 18ポイント19ポイント  (3子コメント)

Firstly, IANAL.

You need to definitely call the police if people keep showing up after you post a sign/notify the landlord he is to stop this immediately. Especially call the cops if people continue to be found in your home after posting the sign. I'm not sure if there's a way to bar your doors temporarily. Something that works like the chain, but wouldn't keep you out too. Changing the locks is preferable, but might put you in the wrong. (This is where a lawyer would come in handy for you. They would know the local laws you need to follow.)

So, op, this is insane.

Let me put it this way, if you purchased your own house through Bank of America, and paid your mortgage faithfully every month, would you be ok with BofA saying, "Hi gavekeysimdan, some of our other mortgage holders don't have access to their beds because we are remodeling their bedrooms. (I know BofA doesn't do remodeling, and this is an absurd scenario, just pretend with me. I'd argue OP's scenario is just as absurd.) We know you have a bed, and we know you don't use it all time. So we gave them keys so they can use your bed."

Would you be ok with that? Of course not! It's your property, it's your safety and security, you paid for it!

BofA would have no right to do that, and neither does your landlord!

Op, this is egregious! Why can't the landlord offer them keys to his home? Surely he has a washer and dryer.

I know people are saying you should approach him nicely before getting a lawyer. I disagree. You've already approached him. And I'd argue he knows exactly what he's doing, and that it's illegal. I can't imagine he has multiple properties, and doesn't understand what he's doing is wrong. If you are in real life the same as you come across here in this thread, a bit timid and naive, he's likely using that to his advantage. He's betting you'll roll over and allow this. Please don't!

Stand up for yourself!

  1. Get a lawyer. Period. You've already expressed your displeasure, and he told you to pound sand. Unacceptable.

  2. Post sign on door telling people this is a private residence. Not a laundry facility.

  3. If anyone shows up and disregards the sign, call the cops. Don't allow anymore banging on your door. You pay to have Your own residence. One that you can peacefully enjoy. You are currently getting neither.

  4. Have you got that lawyer yet? You need to.

I'm fuming for you op. This is so horribly disgusting. I hope you straighten this shithead out. Good luck!

[–]jtioannou 4ポイント5ポイント  (2子コメント)

This post is exactly how I feel right now. Listen to this guy.

[–]jrussell424 1ポイント2ポイント  (1子コメント)

*gal.

Thanks for seconding me. :) I shouldn't be so easily angered by a post, but holy cow, this one had me pissed!

P.S. Happy cake day!

[–]knitwasabi 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

Thirding. This LL is insane without a doubt.

[–]sugr_magnolia 34ポイント35ポイント  (8子コメント)

Change your locks asap. Provide your LL with a key. Contact an attorney.

This is so blatantly fucked up, I don't even know where to begin. But you should secure your own apartment and let the other tenants come after your LL for not providing laundry services, per their individual leases.

Ideally, the other renters will be skeptical about going into someone else's unit to do their laundry, but you can't count on that. Seriously, change your locks NOW.

ETA: Just because the LL gave these people keys, doesn't mean you have to let them into your unit. If you don't have a chain on your door, barricade it so people can't get in, and call the police any time someone tries to use "their" key to get into your unit in the meantime before you are able to change your locks.

[–]Lime_Time 11ポイント12ポイント  (7子コメント)

If you provide the LL with a key, won't he just make copies of it again?

[–]and7rewwitha7 13ポイント14ポイント  (6子コメント)

Perhaps, but it's still something you have to do when changing the locks on a rental.

[–]dcux 24ポイント25ポイント  (5子コメント)

Get an expensive deadbolt that uses those fancy keys that aren't easily reproduced.

Like this: http://i.imgur.com/QF21DLj.png

Landlord won't want to spend $25+ per key.

[–]Grim-Sleeper 9ポイント10ポイント  (0子コメント)

Some keys can only (legally) be duplicated by the person on record with the lock smith. They'll have to show id before the locksmith will make a copy; and each locksmith will have a different custom keyway. So, you can't just go to a different locksmith. They wouldn't have access to the right type of blank keys.

[–]tomyownrhythm 0ポイント1ポイント  (3子コメント)

If you're going to do that, why not buy a digital lock that lets you assign temporary passwords to authorized users or guests? LL wants to come in? Fine, your passcode is authorized from noon-2 on Wednesday.

[–]dcux 0ポイント1ポイント  (1子コメント)

The law probably hasn't caught up and likely requires a key/code be provided. After all, the landlord still owns the property and has authority to enter without notice in the event of an emergency.

[–]mizmoose 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

Because landlords still need immediate access in case of emergencies. You cannot deny them this access.

[–]counsel8 4ポイント5ポイント  (1子コメント)

Change the locks, take the cost out of next month's rent, go see an attorney

[–]Grim-Sleeper 9ポイント10ポイント  (0子コメント)

Be very careful when deducting expenses from rent checks. Many jurisdictions seriously frown on renters doing so, and this could be cause for eviction.

[–]taumeson 1ポイント2ポイント  (0子コメント)

A landlord really isn't allowed to put things like that into the lease anyway, so don't let him/her confuse you. Landlord tenant law exists for a reason. I had to sue my landlord to get my deposit back and online it even says that there are certain things that aren't enforceable. I'm sure having people walk through your house is one of them, if it were in there.

[–]dannimatrix 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

Honestly, I would immediately go and get one of those stick-on alarms with a door sensor that has a really loud ass siren. The next time someone came in to your home, they are going to get the crap scared out of them. If you can find an alarm system that alerts the police, get it. Then the landlord will have to explain that he is illegally letting people into your home. At the very least, it might deter the other renters from using your laundry.

[–]seven_seven 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

There is no down side to calling the police about this. It's not like they send you a bill.

[–]sylban 6ポイント7ポイント  (1子コメント)

I don't think you can really take keys back these days. Once they're out, they're out, and there's no way to know how many copies were made. The locks must be changed.

[–]swalsh411 3ポイント4ポイント  (0子コメント)

You're right, the locks need changed.

[–]ParvaDilectus 4ポイント5ポイント  (2子コメント)

Jesus, I'd be worried one of these made copies of the key. Can OP insist the locks be changed regardless?

[–]swalsh411 2ポイント3ポイント  (0子コメント)

Absolutely now that I think about it some more. Locks need changed. No way to guarantee a copy hasn't been made.

[–]ZorbaTHut 2ポイント3ポイント  (0子コメント)

Yeah there's no way I'd be keeping the same locks.

[–]colinodell 4ポイント5ポイント  (1子コメント)

Even if he does take those keys back I would still change the locks. Who knows if somebody else made a copy of them.

[–]swalsh411 2ポイント3ポイント  (0子コメント)

You're right now that i think about it more. Cat's out of the bag. Locks need changes.

[–]mrrp 66ポイント67ポイント  (6子コメント)

Your landlord is an idiot.

If he needs to provide laundry he can point his other tenants towards the nearest laundromat and tell them to deduct their laundry expenses from their rent.

[–]ThisIsMyFatLogicAlt 14ポイント15ポイント  (3子コメント)

Heck, there's probably a coinless laundry nearby; he could just buy a stack of prepaid laundry cards from them. Easy peasy.

[–]Montuckian 14ポイント15ポイント  (1子コメント)

You can say that again!

[–]thebeef24 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

Shouldn't have given him permission.

[–]luipfroots 2ポイント3ポイント  (0子コメント)

But that would cost him more than just copying keys.

[–]ThisIsMyFatLogicAlt 7ポイント8ポイント  (1子コメント)

Heck, there's probably a coinless laundry nearby; he could just buy a stack of prepaid laundry cards from them. Easy peasy.

[–]slambur 135ポイント136ポイント  (4子コメント)

I assume you also pay for utilities, running a washer and dryer ain't free!

[–]clientnotfound 75ポイント76ポイント  (1子コメント)

I don't think OP even realizes they are paying for all those people's laundry.

[–]slambur 13ポイント14ポイント  (0子コメント)

Yeah that's why I mentioned it! OP needs to add it to the list of complaints

[–]Omicron777 42ポイント43ポイント  (1子コメント)

LL probably gave the green light for the tenants to use his detergent and fabric softener... What person is comfortable strolling through another person's home to do their laundry? And what psycho wants to do this to the point of pounding on a locked door for 10min? Gotta be awkward...

[–]Cuddle_Apocalypse 38ポイント39ポイント  (0子コメント)

That's one of the crazy things for me. I'd be deeply uncomfortable just walking up into a stranger's home to do laundry, especially if they're not home. I'd haul my shit to the nearest laundromat before I'd do that.

[–]cacille 43ポイント44ポイント  (4子コメント)

Landlord probably thinks he is stuck in a rock/hard place scenario, but he isn't.

  • He could point people to laundromat, deduct cost from rent.

  • He could pay for a service to take laundry twice a week, do, return.

  • Barring those being unavailable in your area, then he could contact a hotel and ask about charges to provide a service like this.

  • He could hire a company like serv pro to come in and repair the laundry room quicker.

Give him those options, and say you will not allow strangers to walk in and have access to steal your stuff as of this minute, you are headed to Lowes/HD to change the locks, if he has an issue with you doing this, call the police, and you Will make sure to be calling a lawyer too.

[–]OneRedSent 21ポイント22ポイント  (2子コメント)

I'm sure landlord is cash strapped and that's why he's doing the fix himself and doesn't want to lose any rent. But he can't legally make that OP's problem.

[–]Shinhan -2ポイント-1ポイント  (1子コメント)

Nope. I think this thread will be enough to encourage him to call the cops and a lawyer.

[–]_no_fap 7ポイント8ポイント  (0子コメント)

He said LL, not tenant. The comment you linked shows OP saying that he can afford a lawyer.

[–]dewprisms 2ポイント3ポイント  (0子コメント)

I can't even fathom why his thought process went to "I know, I'll let them into my other tenant's dwelling without permission and give them each their own key!" instead of "Tell each tenant their rent is lowered by 20 bucks per month until laundry facilities are up and running to cover the costs of a laundromat". I mean really wtf!

[–]cld8 28ポイント29ポイント  (0子コメント)

Your lease doesn't need to say that you have exclusive use of the house. If you are renting a house, this is implied.

Send your landlord a letter stating that he is in breach of the lease and anyone who enters your house without your permission will be arrested for trespassing.

[–]ashdog137 28ポイント29ポイント  (2子コメント)

The relevant law has been well-covered by other comments (specifically, Iowa law explicitly prohibits this), so I'll provide some brief practical advice.

1) Saying that you're retaining a lawyer causes the landlord to respond as if you're retained a lawyer. This will not induce the landlord to respond favorably or promptly to you in the short-term and will likely cause the landlord to entrench in his existing position until he can procure counsel of his own. It may be too late for this as you may have already dropped the l-bomb, but a better initial approach would be to politely inform the landlord that his actions are unacceptable to you and likely violate your state's landlord-tenant law, so you'll be exercising your right under the lease and state law to repair the property at his cost (namely, change the locks to resecure the property) and calling the police on any trespassers, and suggest that he find an alternate (and legal) remedy to satisfy his obligations to his other tenants. If he balks, change the locks (and provide a key upon request) and bill him. If he provides new keys to his other tenants, file in small claims court to recover your costs and have the court enter an injunction against the landlord. Regardless, put a sign on your door informing the trespassers that they will be treated as trespassers if they trespass, and call the cops freely on trespassers.

2) Your lease is over. Start finding a new home now. Your landlord will end your lease at the first available opportunity. Be ahead of the game and already be prepared to move, because you will be, soon.

3) Make sure your renters insurance premiums remain paid and inventory your belongings each day until you resecure your home.

4) Keep track of all of the costs your landlord has already imposed upon you -- loss of use of your laundry facilities, increased utility bills, days that your landlord has enabled third parties right of access which alienates you from private enjoyment of the premises. Document these costs and be prepared to raise them against the landlord, either by sternly-worded letter or in court.

Good luck with this incredibly crappy situation. Hopefully the landlord backs down, but let us know how it goes!

[–]taumeson 4ポイント5ポイント  (0子コメント)

Upvote for you. This is solid advice if I've ever seen any. #2 was going to be my personal contribution and boy is it true.

[–]37-pieces-of-flair 3ポイント4ポイント  (0子コメント)

Adding on: OP, get security cameras/nannycams to keep an eye on your valuables.

[–]dirvine_r 49ポイント50ポイント  (0子コメント)

While you are waiting to see a lawyer, change your locks. You may have to give a copy to your landlord, but if you do make it VERY CLEAR that he cannot make copies to give to other people. Better yet, have a lawyer tell him this

[–]igegaoe 38ポイント39ポイント  (0子コメント)

Since I haven't seen it mentioned yet, I would expect to have to move as soon as your lease is up. Landlord seems unreasonable, and will likely give you notice as soon as he legally can. So you may want to be ready for that.

[–]beholdmycape 17ポイント18ポイント  (0子コメント)

It doesn't even seem like anyone had mentioned the other people using your water and electricity, that's as outrageous as any other part of this.

[–]Free_Hat_McCullough 14ポイント15ポイント  (0子コメント)

It's very curious how you landlord 'forgot' to tell you that he was going to give 7 people keys to your home so they could enter your house to do laundry anytime.

[–]Gawd_Awful 14ポイント15ポイント  (2子コメント)

Who the hell would just go into another persons house to do laundry, even with your landlords permission? That's weird as hell. I'd rather go pay for a laundry mat than bust up in someones house I didnt know.

[–]ThisIsMyFatLogicAlt 3ポイント4ポイント  (0子コメント)

Even if I thought the renter knew and was cool with it, I'd be scared I'd let their cat out, or even get raped or something. You don't just walk into strangers' houses, period. How do they know OP isn't violent?

[–]pteroso 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

Two apartments ago, I went through an office to get to the basement to do laundry. It meant that I could only do laundry on weekends.

It was an accounting office. I could have snooped into people's tax returns but I never did because it would be unethical.

[–]SexualHarasmntPanda 11ポイント12ポイント  (0子コメント)

Get the locks changed first thing in the morning.

[–]HomoHick 24ポイント25ポイント  (3子コメント)

Its a GD miracle one of them wasn't shot or beaten... I can only imagine the litigation against the landlord if one of the launderers where shot, believed to be an burglar.

[–]Incursus 8ポイント9ポイント  (2子コメント)

Seriously. If I came home to someone I didn't know in my house they'd absolutely be looking down the barrel of a gun. This landlord is insane.

[–]ThisIsMyFatLogicAlt 13ポイント14ポイント  (1子コメント)

Heck, I'd hide and call 911. Still not great odds that a launderer wouldn't get shot by the cops. People have gotten shot over lesser misunderstandings.

[–]HomoHick 7ポイント8ポイント  (0子コメント)

Either way... they are very lucky. There are plenty of people that carry 24/7.

[–]triflingbetch 8ポイント9ポイント  (0子コメント)

Also; it's completely okay to call the non-emergency police number regarding this situation as well. You can explain your situation and ask for advice. You can also figure out a game plan in regards to calling the police for further trespassing, etc.

[–]OddBob212 7ポイント8ポイント  (0子コメント)

'I called the landlord and sure enough he says he gave keys to all his other residents "temporarily" but that he gave them explicit instructions to only go to the basement and no where else.'

I was put in mind of that kid a few weeks back who wrote souvenir checks for all his friends and told them they were not allowed to cash the checks. Think he and the landlord might be related?

[–]Kiki_the_Monkey 20ポイント21ポイント  (0子コメント)

Update us when you sort this out. We all have justice boners.

[–]GOATLin 6ポイント7ポイント  (0子コメント)

Not only can't he do this, the fact he let people into your home without even warning you is outrageous and totally illegal. It's amateur hour landlording over there.

Assert your rights. At least get a break on your rent at the very least if you're willing to work with him on this. Also, this will increase your utilities.

Just unacceptable all the way around. Things like this need to be negotiated.

[–]caro_kg 17ポイント18ポイント  (0子コメント)

I once worked at a salon and spa where we were constantly doing laundry. The space was leased. Once, the washer and dryer both broke, so the landlord had us use a laundromat and reimbursed us for the expenses. I think your landlord should do something like this for his other tenants -- I agree with the other comments that what he's currently doing is illegal.

[–]a_warm_gun 6ポイント7ポイント  (0子コメント)

If the other posts haven't made it clear--you have exclusive use of the property, with some very specific exceptions for the landlord. Exclusive use means you get to decide who is and isn't in the propertty. The exceptions for the landlord are things like repairs, showing the place to propsective tenants, and so on.

Unless it is explicitly laid out, there is no way he can allow his other tenants to use your property for laundry. It doesn't matter that there is nothing in the lease that says he can't do this.

[–]IM_WORTHLESS_AMA 5ポイント6ポイント  (0子コメント)

Your landlord should be footing the bill for the other people to use a laundromat. In the meantime, setup cameras and document everything (what you have, where it's placed, how much it costs, etc). Get renters insurance as well.

The longer your landlord lets people trespass at your expense, the longer he'll take to get things into shape. The landlord should also pay YOU for gas/electricity usage or at least part, and for housekeeping or cleaning supplies for all the dirt the people will track in.

[–]AnIce-creamCone 4ポイント5ポイント  (1子コメント)

Just because it doesn't say in your lease you have exclusive right to the basement, doesn't mean the landlord has the ability to allow others into it, either. To access the basement, his other renters have to directly cross through your leased property to access the basement. You have EVERY right to change the locks to a type that locksmiths can't open, and screw your landlord. He has NO right to allow others access to your property, and that's what a lease is. A rented property in your name. If he has an agreement with his other property renters, then he has to make arrangements for them out of his own pocket. Usually they can take their clothes to a laundromat, get a receipt and deduct the amount from the rent with the receipts attached. Get a lawyer, get a good set of un-pickable locks for the doors, call your landlord and tell him to make other arrangements.

PS If any of your stuff is stolen, your insurance won't cover the loss because you allowed strangers to have access to your property. They will tell you to file a claim with your landlord's insurance company, who will then say "No".

[–]the_fella 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

What laundromat gives receipts? The one I go to won't even give refunds for quarters their machines eat.

[–]tomanonimos 5ポイント6ポイント  (0子コメント)

Hey OP, go to wal-mart or a hardware store and change ALL the locks yesterday. Huge safety issue.

[–]ThisIsMyFatLogicAlt 4ポイント5ポイント  (0子コメント)

OP, definitely change your locks, no matter what. There's no guaranteeing that none of these launderers have already made a copy.

[–]denali42 4ポイント5ポイント  (0子コメント)

Are the utilities (electricity, water, sewer) included in your rent? Because if they're not, I know eight people who probably owe you for that. Also, the basement is still part of the house. If the lease has a provision about when HE may enter the house (24 hours notice, etc), then he can be there upon notice. Anyone else is breaking & entering or trespassing. I'd say it's time to start looking for an attorney that specializes in landlord-tenant law and time to start looking for a new place with a different landlord.

[–]bunnygirlbeans 4ポイント5ポイント  (0子コメント)

Your landlord is a complete asshole. Why would anyone think that it would be acceptable for you to have complete strangers letting themselves into your house and wandering through it at anytime of the night or day? WHO DOES THAT???

Get a lawyer, change the locks, whatever you have to do to make this stop.

[–]Chewy_Morsels 10ポイント11ポイント  (1子コメント)

Updates please, keep us informed.

[–]RoboticElfJedi 7ポイント8ポイント  (0子コメント)

This is one of my favorite /r/legaladvice posts ever, because it's so outrageous, and because OP is so nice.

[–]radii314 8ポイント9ポイント  (0子コメント)

prepare a letter, send it certified first thing in the morning

call him first and tell him what's in the coming letter:

  1. He is to change the locks immediately and ban all his other tenants from entering your dwelling for any reason immediately or you will change the locks and deduct the cost from your next rent payment

  2. He can give his tenants quarters for the laundromat machines to meet his obligation but it is not your problem

  3. You are shocked at his conduct and expect an apology

[–]wolfofone 3ポイント4ポイント  (0子コメント)

Not a lawyer, but i have had my share of landlord issues and have been a long time renter.

Note that some of this may vary by your location (you may actually have more rights beyond this), but generally that lease gives you exclusive use of the property and the right to quiet enjoyment of that property. Although the landlord is the property owner, you have control of its usage through the term of the lease. The landlord must provide 24 hours notice if they wish to enter the home, usually in writing, and it must be a reasonable, well, reason, and at an acceptable time (usually traditional business hours). The one exception to this is that the landlord does have the right to enter the property in the event of an emergency (ie, pipe leaking/burst).

He has no right to enter the property to use your laundry much less provide keys or promise access to other people to enter your house! You are well within your rights to change the locks (you will need to make a copy for him) and I would also reach out to a tenant advocacy group and/or a lawyer to tell him officially via certified mail that this is NOT okay!

[–]jon909 5ポイント6ポイント  (0子コメント)

Is the landlord new to renting? This is not ok in any way shape or form

[–]Toyland_in_Babes 3ポイント4ポイント  (0子コメント)

I haven't gotten through all the comments yet, but you have been given some good advice.

The landlord says he's doing it because his other leases say he needs to give them access to laundry facilities, but I'm wondering why he couldn't just decrease their rent by $10-20/month so they could go to a laundromat.

[–]plssircanihavesmore 2ポイント3ポイント  (0子コメント)

Put a notice on your door at the very least. Explain that entering without your permission is trespassing.

[–]Elite_Fighter 2ポイント3ポイント  (0子コメント)

IANAL : But I would.. Call the cops and show them the lease that has only your name on it and that nobody else has your consent to be in the house, I'd recommend having a lawyer draft something up to send to your landlord. If he is really that stubborn of a landlord and decides to ignore the lawyer, then court is an option.

[–]DukeMaximum 2ポイント3ポイント  (0子コメント)

No, it's completely illegal for people to enter your home (rental or not) without your permission or adequate notice. This includes the landlord. He can't just give out keys to random strangers and invite them into your home.

I would inform your new house guests that they aren't allowed to enter the home, keys or not, and that you will call the cops if they return. I would explain this to the landlord as well in an email or registered letter.

The repairs and leases he has with other tenants is NOT your problem. If the landlord refuses to get the keys back, then contact a tenant attorney and look into what next steps might be.

[–]lucysalvatierra 4ポイント5ポイント  (0子コメント)

You have to update!

[–]the1iwant 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

Change the damn locks. ASAP!

I didn't see this posted elsewhere, but please do this immediately. Who knows if your landlord and his other tenants will pay attention to a sign informing them to stay out. He doesn't seem the kind to respect anything of yours.

[–]CoCo26 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

Ah,never thought I'd see good old Iowa city on here. Landlords over there are scumbags

[–]Grimsterr 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

I'm no lawyer, but it doesn't take one to know this is COMPLETELY not OK and that you definitely need to put the screws to him over this.

That said, please update us on how things unfold, bitches love updates!

[–]another_person_on_ne 1ポイント2ポイント  (0子コメント)

I'd start by just telling him that it's not acceptable and that if you see someone else in the house will call the police. Be polite but firm. Remind him that even he is not permitted by law to enter without 24 hours notice and even then there are limits.

If he's reasonable and apologizes then I'd drop it as a misunderstanding. If not, go lawyer.

[–]EarthBoundMisfitEye 0ポイント1ポイント  (0子コメント)

I'd move the he'll out. Awful slum Lord you have there who had no clue. Lawful abandonment. ... Google it and see if it pertains. Either way. .. I'd feel so violated now I couldn't live there. I don't share well and me paying my rent on time implies it's MY space, no one else's. If you can't use your washer and dryer when ever you want how is this fair our within your least agreement? I'd ball out. Done it once before over a washer dryer issue in a crap place no less.

Edit. .a word