COLUMBUS, Ohio — Residents of Kent Place, a low-income housing community in the Hilltop neighborhood of Columbus, are facing a distressing situation as they receive eviction notices for allegedly unpaid rent, despite claiming they have made timely payments.
Several tenants report receiving shocking notices of substantial rent arrears.
Brandy Hall is one of several residents who was told she owes thousands of dollars in back rent.
"I got my paper on my door, and it was $8,000," she said,
Tenant Heavenly Sisson expressed disbelief, saying, "They're saying we have to pay $8,600 back that we already paid."
The emotional toll on the residents is evident. When asked about their state of mind, Hall responded, "I cry at work, I cry every night. I don't know where I'm going to lay my head."
Payment Discrepancies
Tenants claim they were instructed to pay rent in cash or money orders by the former property manager. One resident explained the unusual request.
"That's what she told us to do because her money order machines kept catching on fire," said Angel Shreves, who says she was told she owes more than $8,000.
Despite having lived in their homes for over a year, many tenants are now being told they are months behind on rent. Some have even been informed that there is no record of any payments made.
"All of my papers say I never paid a single time," said Shayanna Goble.
Management Response
When contacted for comment, the property management company, RLJ of Columbus, acknowledged the issue:
"We are aware of a previous property manager misapplying rent payments... causing it to show some tenants with outstanding balances...We are in the process of investigating all of this and will credit the funds back to the proper tenants... We are also working with the authorities to prosecute the former manager for what she has done."
Eviction Threats and Resolution
Despite the ongoing investigation, tenants have received eviction notices.
"They're evicting us out even though they owe us money," said Shreves.
In response to inquiries, the management company stated: "No tenant will be evicted from their home if they provide us with proof of the missing payments."
Tenant Concerns
The situation has left many tenants stressed and uncertain about their future.
Gobel, who is pregnant, says the stress is overwhelming.
"I'm trying not to stress out because I'm pregnant and I'm not wanting to put that stress on my baby," she said.
As the investigation continues, tenants are preparing for the possibility of having to move. The former property manager declined to comment when asked for an interview.
This rental nightmare highlights the importance of maintaining clear payment records and the potential vulnerabilities low-income renters face in managing their housing situations.