June 28, 2008

Tavia's Landlord Saga


Tavia’s landlord just took the place over from her daughter and son-in-law. Tavia had no problem with the daughter, but the mother, Lynda, is really something. Tavia says:

"It has been hell. She is over here every other day. "

For more details, click in the comments.

172 comments:

linnette said...

mom, I started typing this out to document what happened with my landlord tonight. I thought you might get a kick out of reading some of it.

Lynda told me last week she needed to come in to look at the heater Thursday, Friday or Monday, that she'd call first. Never called but was here last week I think on Thursday working on the guy’s house in back with some workers. Came over (without calling) and said her workers had to look at the countertops for repair. The guys came in, said they were ready to start work the following day. I said I wasn’t going to be here. Lynda said okay, that she'd stay with them. I said, “How about Monday because I will be home." We all agreed on Monday at 9 AM.

Monday comes, they start work. At around 1 PM, she tells me not to cook in the kitchen because they have to let the grout sit overnight and that she'd be back the following day to seal it. They did the bathroom too, so I was told not to cook or use sinks in kitchen or bathroom.


The workers left and she asked me to check my house and make sure nothing was stolen. Said she didn't know the guy and that was the first time he'd worked on the houses so she thought I should check to see what was stolen and let her know before she leaves.

She comes back to seal it tonight. Grout wasn't done the way she wanted it so she started redoing it and said she wouldn't be able to seal it tonight after all (because it is wet again). She needs to come back the following night after she was here for over two hours knowing I had to be up at 4 AM. It’s almost 9 PM and I usually go to bed at 7 PM. I asked her how long the process was for Wednesday night as I have an early day on Thursday as well. She said she'd come alone when I’m at work tomorrow. I agreed, but didn't like the idea. She looked at kitchen wanted that done again too, so she said she'd need to come back a fourth night because she didn't have the right grout with her tonight. She'd need to do the grout tomorrow and then do the sealant the next night.

Then she remembered that she had unlocked the kitchen windows and had forgotten to tell me that lock them back up. So, I went over night with my windows unlocked. [Tavia makes sure she is very safe before she goes to sleep at night.]

I asked if we could pick one day to get it all done at once. Told her I'd call her on my way home from work because I thought I'd go a head and meet her. She got upset and said I didn't trust her. I said I honestly was uncomfortable with so many interruptions, windows being left unlocked, people that she does not know coming through, etc. I reassured her that I trust her, I just want to be home. She blew up.

She started yelling "MY house" and told me that she can come in without me being here.

I told her I think I need twenty four hours notice. she said ok this is your twenty four. I said, "No, you are not coming at nine at night tomorrow, Lynda, come on..." she said 'actually we started talking about me coming back earlier, so the twenty four hours starts from there.

she yelled, said "you'd' better not cook anything or use the sink in your bathroom" told her that was another thing I was upset about, I couldn't cook or use my sinks, I would have liked notice I wasn't going to be able to eat. she said haven't you ever heard of eating out? ran into kitchen and put plastic up on the counters and yelled "make a sandwich only don't you dare cook in here or do your makeup on your bathroom counters. see what I get for being nice to people?"

The next day Lynda sees a little bit of makeup on the bathroom counter. She accusingly shouts, “Did you put your makeup on in here?” (I hadn’t.)

*****
Mom, I just talked to my neighbors. I didn't' have to explain much they just said "what is Lynda doing to you? she has done everything to us." I said "I try to be really nice to her because I think she might be a little crazy"

They said "what? no she isn't a LITTLE crazy she really is crazy. she is off of her medication now but has been in the hospital etc." Said something about her having a nervous breakdown and that is what caused her daughter to take over. When the daughter called them to tell them that the mom was in charge again they said "no, please try to stop this, is there anything you can do? I don't want to deal with her"

SO, now I feel kind of bad. They said she might have two different personalities. That she often calls them past midnight. Tells them she is coming over and does not show up for a week.

Below was written earlier tonight around 7pm, before I talked to the neighbors. I'm just documenting as much as I can because if she tries to take legal action or anything I'll remember as much as I can:

When I got home at 6 pm there wasn't a notice to enter in writing.

I called Lynda and politely asked her if she could come after 2:30 on Friday, that I'd come home from work a little early to meet her. She said "no, I'm coming tomorrow at 10am" I asked if she was sure because it would be better for me. She said "no that is my house I'm coming at 10 tomorrow" I told her she actually can't, that I talked to the dept of consumer affairs today and the notice must be in writing 24 hours in advance.

she said she gave me verbal and that was enough. I told her I asked about that specifically and they told me it must be in writing.

she went on a rant (kept saying that I repeated myself three times about the tools being left all around my house when they left for 45 minutes (when they left at 6pm, left everything out and open and left for 45 minutes not telling me if they were coming back), said she wasn't going to deal with my problems and she wasn't going to let my unhappiness rub off on her. - repeated that she would be here at 10 tomorrow and hung up.

She called me back a few minutes later and yelled some more. Said because of me she has to keep coming back here and wasting gas in her car.

I kept saying "Lynda calm down, calm down, calm down, lets work out a time when we can do everything at once and you don't' have to keep coming back." She didn't hear any of it because she was yelling over me. Said all I do is "complain, complain, complain, haven't you ever heard the phrase that you catch more honey with sugar than with vinegar"

She told me to call the cops, do whatever I wanted but that she'd be here at 10.

---- I called the north Hollywood police dept. They said the notice must be in writing, but that if she came in. I'd have to prove it, then file a police report. From there he wasn't sure what they could do, didn't think it would go far but suggested I call the detectives dept. I called there was no answer. Left it at that, took pictures with a disposable camera because if she comes in the proof will be the repairs.

****

Lynda left two notices on the front door. One was a 24-hour notice to enter for Friday. The other one was a Notice to Enter for Saturday or Sunday, just in case she couldn't make it on Friday.
******

Friday: Lynda still has not shown up. No call. No nothing. I can't be here on Saturday or Sunday during the hours she put on the notice so I just called her, no answer.

I just left her a message that said "I just want to make sure you are still coming today, I received your notices and I'm here waiting. As far as coming on Saturday and Sunday, those times are not going to work for me and according to the Dept of consumer affairs you can only enter during normal business hours. I am willing to make a verbal agreement on a time next week so you don't have to drive over just to give me a written notice but we both must agree on the time in order for it to be valid. If not, I would need another written notice but again, it must be during normal business hours. So call me back 310-497-6058 Thank you Lynda"

************


Tavia, keep us updated.

Lisa said...

Tavia, what an unbelievable story! Sounds like a nightmare; I don't think I'd have as much patience as you. Hope everything turns out alright, in the end. It's good that you're documenting everything, you'll probably need to refer to all this at some point.

Anonymous said...

Thank you Lisa.

Normally, I wouldn't care if a landlord came in to do repairs when I was not home. In fact, I prefer not being home.

But she kept saying "I can be in here anytime I want!! It is MY house." So that made me feel weird.

Also, the day I moved in, the daughter told me, "If my mother ever comes here, do not let her in." So that raised a red flag from day one. Now I see what she was talking about.

Lisa said...

Yeah, her daughter probably knows the extent to which she's crazy. What presented itself as a red flag to me was when she kept telling you to check and make sure nothing had been stolen; made me wonder if she herself stole anything. You know? By the way, WAS anything missing?

Anonymous said...

No, nothing was missing. I don't think she would steal from me but I do think she is the type to go through everything if I wasn't home. Nosy.

Anonymous said...

Tavia, I'm so proud of you for standing up for yourself. You remained polite and cool headed, but at the same time took control of the situation.

That poor daughter. Can you imagine growing up with a mother like that?

Anonymous said...

She is here! She is here! I just saw her car pull in. The chain lock and the other locks are on so she can't get in with her key.

I'm in my bedroom so she can't see me.

Anonymous said...

OMG Tavia. What's going on now?

Anonymous said...

she is banging on the door

Anonymous said...

im not answering. she tried to come in. she is banging on all of the doors.

i am on the phone with the police

Anonymous said...

she is creeping around the back now.

Anonymous said...

she is banging and trying to get in every door. the chain locks are stopping her.

police are on the way.

Anonymous said...

she is even trying to get in the windows.

Anonymous said...

Tavia, keep us posted because people are watching. Have the police make an entry on the blog. JK

linnette said...

Did you tell the police it was your landlord? Are they there yet?

Anonymous said...

what happening now?
Momma says hurry up, she needs to know what's going on...

Anonymous said...

What's happening? We're sitting on pins and needles.

Anonymous said...

she knows your home because she can see your truck, right?

Anonymous said...

Tavia, are you ok?

linnette said...

Waiting......

Anonymous said...

This is terrible not to know, my imagination is running away with me.

Anonymous said...

Everything is OK. She left before the cops got here.

Anonymous said...

come on, facts girl, facts. Give us the dirt

Anonymous said...

refreshing, refreshing, refreshing.

Anonymous said...

Tavia, were you a nervous wreck? Were you shaking? Were you scared? Tavia, says, "no I was laying back doing my nails".

Anonymous said...

Wouldn't it be funny if Tavia was in the shower or on her way to play tennis and we are sittin here waiting?

Anonymous said...

Man was I disappointed to see her car gone when the operator told me the cops were almost here.

The cops were very nice. I told them that the neighbors mentioned she might have schizophrenia but for sure has a history of mental illness. The cops said that can be dangerous and for me to call anytime she comes back without notice.

Anonymous said...

Tavia, Tavia, Tavia!
It is n ow legal to wn a gun!!!

Henry

Anonymous said...

I'm nervous for you, Tavia. I don't mean for right this minute, but what about the next time? That woman is 51/50 and who knows what she'd do?

Anonymous said...

Don't mean to make light of this, but got a kick out of "CREEPING around the back now."

Anonymous said...

Maybe she went to get a saw to cut off those chains?

Anonymous said...

She couldn't have heard you talking to the police could she?

Anonymous said...

I bet that woman is so angry right now-not being able to get in and all.

I'm scared.

Anonymous said...

I think you should call her daughter.

Anonymous said...

OK more details. She banged on the front door and then i heard her keys opening it. I heard the chain lock clanking like she was trying to force the door.

So I locked the bedroom doors and called 911. The way she was pounding and forcing was what made me freak out.

So she didn't have luck on the front door so she went around to the back doors. Same thing, pound pound pound, keys unlocking doors then chain sound.

I was on the phone with the operator and they asked me what is she doing now, I sort of peeked out of my bedroom shade and she was creeping up to my bedroom window with an evil smile on her face like she saw me or something.

Then she went to the kitchen side door and tried that one but the chain lock is on there as well.

Quite a bit more pounding and forcing went on then all quiet.

Anonymous said...

I wish you had a hidden camera running, Tavia.

Anonymous said...

Tavia, it is very weird for a landlord to be wanting to make these kinds of repairs while a tennant is living in the apartment. These are not urgent things. Nothing is an emergency and you didn't request any of these repairs correct? This seems like harrassment to me. You could also demand some rent reimbursement for the inconvenience she has cause, not being able to use the kitchen, not being able to cook, or sleep or whatever. Crazy! What was wrong with the heater anyway?

linnette said...

I'm starting to like Henry's idea.

Anonymous said...

You could have been in the shower for all she knew. If she had of gotten in, she would have just walked right in on you.

She's dangerous. I want you to move.

Anonymous said...

she is back!

Anonymous said...

CALL THE POLICE RIGHT NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

I bet she has something to cut the chain! DID YOU CALL THE POLICE? I'M GOING TO IF YOU DIDN'T!

Anonymous said...

here we go again!!! cops on the way once again.

linnette said...

What is she doing? Trying to get in again? I hope the cops are faster this time.

Anonymous said...

I'm gonna to make myself a drink. BRB

Anonymous said...

I'm back

Anonymous said...

i don't know what she is doing. it is all quiet.

i hope the same cops respond.

she needs to see them so she knows i'm not taking this lightly or putting up with her.

Anonymous said...

But is her car still there? Can you see anything? She knows you are there.

Anonymous said...

what is she doing now?

Anonymous said...

But is her car still there? Can you see anything? She knows you are there.

Anonymous said...

But is her car still there? Can you see anything? She knows you are there.

Anonymous said...

OK, this is funny. She is out there working on the bricks. She has no idea that I called the cops. Boy is she going to get a big surprise in a few minutes.

linnette said...

You should not be in your bedroom hiding. That is no way to live. Just go about your day like you would any other time. Just pretend you don't see or hear a thing when she knocks on the door.

linnette said...

You could just be walking around singing.

linnette said...

happily singing as she is banging on the door.

Anonymous said...

she'll probably say that you're the one that's crazy, Tavia. She'll say she's just there is work on the bricks and didn't even try to get in.

linnette said...

Is it legal for her to be working on the premises on the weekend? Or is it just that she cannot enter the house on the weekend without your permission.

Anonymous said...

more banging on the door. i went out to see if maybe it was the cops. she had her back turned so she didn't see me.

Anonymous said...

I think it is harrassment for her to even be there. You pay rent for peace as well. Who wants someone evern out front working on the bricks. Whats wrong with the bricks anyway?

Anonymous said...

i'm not sure about working out there on the weekend. i don't care if she does.

but trying to get in like that is out of line.

she told me on the phone the other day "call the cops, i don't care, it is my house, i can be in there anytime i want"

so...here we go

Anonymous said...

I bet this landlord bitch is in heat! Hen

Anonymous said...

The cops MUST be there by now.

Anonymous said...

I want to know what this woman is like...is she old? Manly? Pitiful? Scary? Threatening?

I think we should all introduce ourselves to her.

Anonymous said...

...you know what I mean...

Anonymous said...

they are not here yet. banging stopped, now she is just outside fixing something.

i can't imagine they dispatched the same guys.

Anonymous said...

I can NOT believe this...you should call them again! You don't want her to leave before they get there.

Anonymous said...

But she is not doing anything wrong right now correct? If it was me,I would not call them again. You might look like the man who called wolfe.

Anonymous said...

it's a good thing she's not murdering you because she could have done it and been home making dinner by the time the cops arrive.

Anonymous said...

bummer, i talked to dispatch and the same guys are not coming. it is another cop.

the operator said they are very busy so i'm way down on the list with the "landlord dispute."

Anonymous said...

then why ever bother calling them? I think it's more than "landlord dispute". It's more like someone is trying to "break and enter" your home.

Anonymous said...

Where;s Ron Paul whden you need him? H

linnette said...

Tavia: At this point, I would not hide out in your bedroom. Don't let her presence outside disrupt your normal activities. Just don't answer the door. Pretend she is not even there.

linnette said...

It is really something that if you were REALLY NOT home, she would have just walked right in your house using her key.

linnette said...

Yeah, Henry! Where is Ron Paul?

Anonymous said...

yeah they will probably think i'm the crazy one now because she is just out there working.

if it was the same cops, they'd know the story.

i asked for them to come back and the dispatch guy said let me look and see what call they are on. he goes, "yeeeeeeahhh, wow they are busy. but another car is on the way."

what do i say?

Anonymous said...

Exactly. So, that's what this woman will do next week when Tavia's is away at work.

Tavia can't legally change the locks, right?

Yeah, Tavia should just act normal now. Even wave to her from inside. Ha. Just kidding.

Anonymous said...

Tell them the truth. The other cops said the woman could be dangerous and told her to call if she came back. Tell them you're not comfortable with her banging on the doors in a threatening/harrassing manner. Tell them it's not only a little landlord dispute. Tell them that because of her actions and how out of control she gets, you've become afraid of her. Not to mention what the tenants and her own daughter has said about her.

Anonymous said...

Thats good Neisha. You are a riot (wave to her from inside)! Say all those things Neisha said and I hope the lade hears it all.

Anonymous said...

took my moms advice and went out into the kitchen, started putting my dishes away. she ran to the door right away and started pounding again.

i didn't respond. she came up to the kitchen window pounded on it yelling "answer the door! what you are not going to answer the door?"

now she is writing up some paperwork in her car. maybe an offical notice to enter or something.

where are those cops?

linnette said...

Good work, Tavia! Just keep it up.

linnette said...

Those cops are useless. Just don't let her intimidate you. Do your thing.

Anonymous said...

like i'd really answer the door with her going all crazy like that.

Anonymous said...

i mean, in her mind she is going nuts because she does not have control.

but does she really think that any sane person would answer the door to someone in her rage?

and neisha, thanks i will say just what you suggested.

uncle henry, thanks for the support. where is ron paul? he wouldn't put up with this invasion of privacy either.

Anonymous said...

note on door reads "Tenant present but refuses to answer door! Posted on front door at 245 June 29th. Please note this is my second time coming out to do the grout seal but not able to enter because of YOU! Gasoline is not cheap, you must fit your schedule around mine not vise versal per the law!"

Anonymous said...

if she'd follow the law, she wouldn't be wasting so much gas.

linnette said...

Obviously, she is not up on the law. She is not allowed to bother you on the weekends! And, she left a notice on your door for Friday. Why didn't she come then? You made arrangements to be home on Friday. I would just ignore what she wrote. Make her post another 24-hour notice to enter before she gets in again. and, it has to be during the week.

linnette said...

I would write her a letter.

Anonymous said...

So now she's gone?

Wouldn't it have been funny to be in the kitchen making soup or rolling out bread on the counter top?

linnette said...

That way, you are documenting your side and showing how reasonable you will be.

SoCalT said...

she did leave a notice.

Tuesday or Wednesday between 8am - 630pm.

SoCalT said...

she is in her car writing something else up. mom, did you mean write her a letter later? or now?

linnette said...

No, I wouldn't give her a letter right now.

linnette said...

I would mail her a letter certified mail.

linnette said...

And, she can't say Tuesday OR Wednesday and give an all day appointment. You need to know which day and what time!

SoCalT said...

she is smiling out there. all crazy looking. john LOL "creeping around the back."

that is exactly what she was doing though and i couldn't describe it any other way. psycho.

Anonymous said...

oh my gosh, now what am i suppose to do for the rest of the day????
Its been pretty exciting Tave! She will probably return at midnight!
Grandma

SoCalT said...

OK, mom that is what I thought. I'll write it up and send it certified.

Do you like the " you must fit your schedule around mine not vise versal per the law!"

LOL - she leaves me a notice for Friday, I come home and wait and she never showed up or called.

Anonymous said...

What kind of a notice is that Tavia? Tuesday or Wednesady? She gave you a window of 48 and one half hours. She'll be there sometime during those hours. What? She thinks you should take off work for two days just so she can grout? Tell her your dad is a contractor and he will finish the repairs and ask her not to enter or make plans to enter your apartment until you move out, unless and only in the event there is an extreme emergency such as fire, gas or water leak.

Anonymous said...

She must have so much time on her hands. You'd think she'd want to get it done and over with.

She'll probably be back when you're gone. I wouldn't trust her in there now because of the way she's behaved.

Anonymous said...

Well, is she still there? I need to go take a bath, but don't want to miss anything.

Stick your head out the door and ask her if she's going to do anything else exciting today or if your aunt can go take a bath.

SoCalT said...

Neisha, nothing much is happening. go take a bath and check when you get out there may be an update.

Sorry, no cops yet.

Anonymous said...

Oh, Tavia, while your here...do you think you could make me a copy Greg's cd you made? I'm really serious. Greg emailed me a track and I can't seem to play it.

SoCalT said...

The new note says something about business hours not necessarily being mon-fri.

SoCalT said...

sure neisha. i think i can do it off of my laptop.

anyone else have a request while i'm held up in here?

LOL

Anonymous said...

I am checking back in every once in a while. I said to your mom, "Talk about a hot blog topic!" ha.

I HATE to say this Tavia, but eventually you may decide your best bet is to move. I know that sounds terrible.

It will get old paying rent to a landlord who yells, "This is MY house!" A smart landlord would be doing everything possible to make you comfortable and feel like it was truly YOUR home.

Anonymous said...

Linnette, is this the most comments you ever had on a post? 106 and counting...

SoCalT said...

LOL. She called the cops too!

They are still here. They talked to me and told me that under my lease it is my house and i have the right to deny entry at any time. I asked the cop, "can you please tell her that?" He said he would.

He asked me if it was OK if she came in today to finish the grout. I agreed and said that I'd just like to get it over with. I also just wanted him to know that I'm being reasonable.

He and his partner are out there talking to her. It does not look like it is going so well. Can't hear much

SoCalT said...

Oh yeah John don't worry. I'm moving end of July my lease is up.

I pay my rent two weeks early every month and have ever since I moved in last August.

Anonymous said...

Tave ~ Check with the housing authority. You may be getting some free rent among other things. This dame has gone way beyond the laws. She must contact you for entry at all times in advance. Take photos of the work being done. During some kinds of work she is even required to put you up in a motel. Uncle H

SoCalT said...

they just came in and said "she is tired, she does not want to do the work now. she isn't really working with us."

SoCalT said...

she is nuts! i went out there and asked her to give me a more specific time frame as she didn't show up on friday at all.

she said she couldn't. said something about charging me for any damage done to the grout.

wow, now she is out there knocking trash cans over. cops are gone.

they only suggested that i write a registered letter totally denying her entry.

linnette said...

I cannot believe her. Seems like she is just trying to inconvenience you!

SoCalT said...

now she is going through my trash.

Anonymous said...

well, why did she bother calling them if she was too tired and didn't want to do the work now? you know why?
BECAUSE SHE'S A NUT JOB!

It's better for her not to do it now anyway. You don't want the cops to leave and you be in there alone with her...

linnette said...

What a ***** bitch! I would not allow her to enter ANYMORE! Ever. You are moving out soon anyway, so she can just wait until you move out!

Anonymous said...

it's against the law for someone (anyone) to go through your trash, UNLESS it's set out on the curb.

Anonymous said...

but, then what about the grout, Linnette?

SoCalT said...

Don't you hate it when after the situation is over you think of the perfect thing to say?

Anonymous said...

Momma says you should call the cops back right now because she's out there knocking over your trash cans, etc.

Anonymous said...

what's the perfect thing to say?

linnette said...

Tavia was there on Friday for her to do the grout. She didn't show up. Didn't even call.

linnette said...

And, then today, Tavia says, okay, she can come in and do the grout. But, no, she's too tired.

SoCalT said...

oh i wish i had of told her to come in now to finish or pick a more specific time frame on tuesday because the cops told me i can totally deny entry.

you know, infront of them so they can back me up.

now she is out there working. i thought she said she was tired. this is a joke. im just going to let her come in next week and get out.

Anonymous said...

Tavia,i dont think you have heard the last of her.she looks like the devil,i mean it,soooooooooo mean.
I would not allow her in when you are there.She could so easily do something to you.Better not eat any food left in the house.
She would scare the devil himself,ha
Do be careful, please!

Anonymous said...

is sge still there? be sure to post the time she leaves

Anonymous said...

she left about ten minutes ago.

Anonymous said...

Well, I guess that's all for today.

Good-night, Johnboy.

Anonymous said...

Neisha that is funny. Now who is going to stay up all night on this blog and keep watch?

Lisa said...

Tavia, I just finished reading all of this, and was fascinated with every detail! What suspense you kept me in, coming back periodically and saying, "She's here!" "She's back!"

I bet this is an experience you will NEVER forget, huh!?

linnette said...

she is coming on Tuesday to do the grout and wednesday to seal it. im not going to be "in and out" but i want her to think i might be.

I am leaving her this note:

Lynda,

I will be in and out all day today so I am leaving this note in case I happen to miss you.

Once the grout is patched in the kitchen and bathroom today and sealed tomorrow, no additional repairs will be necessary or agreed to.

Quite opposite of what you told me last Tuesday night when you said you could come in anytime you want, I found out that you have very limited rights of entry.

As the officers said on Sunday, if I want, I can entirely refuse your entry. If you violate my privacy and my right to live in peace and quiet, you are guilty of trespassing and or harassment.

I do not need the ducts looked at or repaired at this time.

NO further repairs will be necessary or agreed to during the remainder of my lease.

Tavia Cantarini

So, the landlord will see that note today. Also, Tavia has two doors to her bedroom. There is no reason for the landlord to enter her bedroom. Tavia left a note on her bedroom that says it should be entered. She locked one of the bedroom doors so the landlord cannot enter it. The door on the other side of the bedroom can be entered, but Tavia put a some brooms up against the door before she exited the opposite door. If the landlord tries to enter the bedroom, all the brooms will fall on the floor and she will be unable to put them back as Tavia had them, because Tavia took a picture so she will know they looked like. It will be interesting to see if the landlord goes in her bedroom. Stay tuned.

Anonymous said...

Oh, very, very clever, Tavia. I think she'll knock the brooms down. What do you think?

linnette said...

WAIT UNTIL YOU HEAR WHAT JUST HAPPENED!!!!!!

THE LANDLORD ATTACKED HER! I'M SERIOUS!

linnette said...

Tavia went home to get her gym clothes. The door was deadbolted, but the landlord was inside the house. Tavia knocked on the door. The lady said, I'm not letting you in! I want you to see what it feels like. She called her a bitch! Accused her of having a dog (and she doesn't)! Took the kitchen faucet, the one that squirts, and squirted it at Tavia. Tavia is shocked, saying, "What are you doing?" Then the crazy landlord pushes her and slams the dining room door on her! Tavia called the cops. I will let Tavia finish this.....

SoCalT said...

Got home, 5:15 to run in and grab my gym clothes to make it by 5:30. I could see her in my kitchen working. I tried the locks on the front door a few times but they wouldn't open, then I realized she had the inside locks and chain on.

So I knocked and she came to the door and looked at me through the glass and started yelling "How does it feel to be locked out? I locked you out to give you a taste of your own medicine you bitch!"

She finally let me in after yelling at me like that through the glass for a bit, I went back towards my bedroom and she kept screaming at me from the kitchen. So I went in the kitchen and said "Why did you lock me out?"

She said "I don't know what you are talking about. I have no idea what you are talking about." Totally denying because I'm sure she knows she can get in trouble for locking me out.

Then she went into this whole thing about how I need to show her a piece of paper from a doctor that says I'm paranoid schizophrenic and that is the reason why I don't want her in. This was weird to me because that is exactly what other neighbors and her daughter told me her condition was.

I told her I'm just standing up for my rights.

She said "You have a dog. I know you have a dog. I'm going to prove it."

I said "I don't have a dog, Lynda."

She said "well then you have a cat."

I said "no cat."

She said she knows I'm hiding something! (Can you believe it? because I don't want her coming in when ever she wants, I must be hiding something. It has nothing to do with me just wanting peace and quiet and privacy - LOL)

She went into this whole thing about how she was going to come back until she proves that I have an animal.

I said "prove it? you can’t prove it, I don’t’ have a dog!"

I was so mad at this point.

The kitchen phone started ringing so I started walking into the kitchen to answer the phone. She said "get out of here. Leave me alone. Get out of this kitchen, I'm working in here. Get out of this house” Standing in my way yelling in my face.

I went around her while saying "I lease this house from you; I don't have to get out." Then I grabbed the ringing phone (on the other side of the kitchen from her). She started spraying me with the kitchen sink sprayer hose thing from across the kitchen. She was laughing.

I started walking out toward the front door saying "what are you doing?" She followed me yelling, "just get out!" then started attacking me pushing and forcing me toward the door. I had dialed 911 at this point and she slammed the dining room doors on me when I was standing in their way.

I ran outside to finish the call with the police. She went right back and started working on the grout in the kitchen.

The cops took about 45 minutes to get here. She was cleaning in the kitchen the whole time.

The cops came and went inside and I could just her arguing with them. I sat outside.

They brought her out in handcuffs and one of the cops said "Mam, I don't think anyone has ever talked to me as disrespectfully as you have." They put her in the back of the cop car (after her arguing over it for a while). Came in and took my report.

The cop’s sergeant came out also and talked to Lynda. She argued with him for a while I could hear him saying “Who do you think you are?” She threatened to file a complaint against the officers (of course).

The cops kept saying “Man, she is really out there. She might be the most unreasonable person I’ve ever met.” They mentioned something about an eviction process being underway. I told them that I always pay my rent two weeks early and there would be no reason for eviction. I guess she thinks there is? I don’t know.

The cop said I could do a personal arrest or something where they take her in, but that I would have to go to court and because the type of arrest it is, they couldn't go with me. It sounded like it would involve days off from work, attorneys etc. so I passed on the arrest.

He said the other option was he files the report on her pushing me, I get a restraining order and if she comes back then they can arrest her for violating the restraining order and it would be in their hands, not mine.

So I opted for the police report and the restraining order. I think the actual police report is for her locking me out and pushing me. The cops urged me to file the restraining order immediately because they had a feeling she’d be back very soon. So I’m going to file it today.

Anonymous said...

Trainor Place:
Now you see why there are 10 times more convicts in prison in the United States than Canada!Our system of law waits too long before it takes action just like Tavia had to to take with Lynda. What will happen next? Of course, this dame will violate a restraining order and will try to handcuff Tavia to show her how it feels! I think half of Tavia's family should spend the 4th partying at her home and be on guard against the landlord bitch!
Same old Hen

SoCalT said...

Henry,

Your idea brought a big smile to my face.

linnette said...

Tavia changed her lock last night, too.

Anonymous said...

This woman is something else. We all want to call her a bitch and say she is mean, and maybe she is. But it is sad to think she could really be "mentally ill" and in need of help and maybe she is not this way at all. Maybe if she could see herself, when she is in her right mind, she would be agast, as we all are. Just a thought, that I know is hard to express especially since we all love Tavia so much we want to lash out and harm/hurt/kill this woman for what she has put Tavia through.

Anonymous said...

Tavia, you have handled yourself through this whole thing in such a mature, wise and admirable way. You have gone out of your way to cooperate with her and still she doens't get it. I've been thinking about the best way to get that deposit money back so that you won't have to go to small claims. It looks like you may have a fight on your hands. Hey couldn't Cate help you with this?

Anonymous said...

This woman DOES need help but at the same time she can sound as though she KNOWS exactly what shes doing and enjoying every moment!
Im glad you changed the locks Tavia,now I wanna know DID YOU FILE THE RESTRAINING ORDER? If not ,run to it NOW....seem the idea is good because it puts it all in the police officers hands.
Let us know Tave THAT YOU DID FILE.. Grandma

kelly said...

I can't believe what you've had to go through Tavia!! Greg and I had some landlords that hasseled us when we first moved to AZ but nothing as bad as this! I admire the way you've handled the whole situation. Greg said last night, "That lady dosen't know who she's messing with"!

Anonymous said...

Yeah Tavia, at least if she doesn't abide by the restraining order, she can be arrested for sure. God idea Tave. We want to know when you file, not if but when. lol I know what you mean Mom, she seems like a definite trouble maker and enjoying it very much!! When Tavia took her picture she said, "Should I smile"?

Anonymous said...

I think that what others are urging you to do, Tavia, is not only for your protection, but also to document and build your case so that it will all be laid out clearly if this ends up in court.

Anonymous said...

One more thing Tave! Is it ok for you to change your lock? I thought the lanlord always had to have a key in case of emergency. Does anyone have the answer to this????
I dont want her to have any excuse to come after you lawfully.\Grandma

linnette said...

The police told her yesterday that she could change the lock (in a situation like this).

Anonymous said...

No sympathy here for that woman. She has a daughter. Let her feel sorry for her.

SoCalT said...

Wow you guys, thanks so much for all of the support! Even Kelly chimed in. Thanks!

I filed the restraining order against Lynda today. The Judge approved the filing "based on a credible threat of violence."

He also approved a temporary so I'll be covered leading up to the court date.

I think someone may have to call her to notify her it has been filed until the Sheriffs have a chance to serve her.

Any volunteers?

SoCalT said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
SoCalT said...

Grandma,

I thought the same exact thing as you did about changing the locks.

The cops are the ones who suggested it. I asked them a few times to make sure it was legal.

They said it was legal because at this point, she is the one I'm in fear of and trying to keep out. They kept saying, "she is the threat."

Anonymous said...

I think Drew should come out from under the couch and serve her!

Uncle

Anonymous said...

I'll do it.

Anonymous said...

Tavia, do you really need someone to call her? To serve her? I'll be glad to do it. Give me her number and the information.

Lisa said...

I'd LOVE to do it, Tave.

Hey, we could ALL go down there, show up on her doorstep, and serve her together...

Seriously, I was under the impression that the server has to be an unbiased person, someone whom neither parties know. Maybe I'm mistaken.

Anonymous said...

I'll do it. In the middle of the night.

SoCalT said...

The judge checked the box where the Sheriffs serve her for free. But yeah normally anyone other than the people involved can server her.

Drew would have done it for me but I really think it is best the Sheriffs do it. I know she will argue and someone that knows me woudn't be good.

But I might need someone to let her know the temporary restrainng order has been filed.

Anonymous said...

I'll do it. In the middle of the night.

Anonymous said...

Hey...what happened to "Lynda's" photo?

SoCalT said...

Neisha, I took it down. I just wanted you to get a real visual, then I removed it.

Anonymous said...

Just wondering,whats going on about the tile? Is it done? Is you place in a big messs? Can you use the kitchen and bath? Keep us all posted to any and all news! Cant believe shes being quiet,watch it, she may be planning a big one!
Grandma

SoCalT said...

Grandma,

On Tuesday when I got home, it looked like she was just finishing up in the kitchen and bathroom. It isn't a big mess but I'm not sure if she sealed the grout.

On Sunday, she told me that she was going to charge me if I didn't let her finish the grout. And she left a note with all caps "IF THE GROUT ISN'T SEALED YOU WILL DAMAGE IT!!!!"

Since I'm not sure if she sealed it, I took pictures of how she left it and then I covered it with plastic. I'm not using the bathroom sink at all. Just using the bathtub to wash my hands etc.

It isn't too easy to live with the plastic but I really don't want to give her any excuse to charge me.

linnette said...

Tavia's security deposit when she moved into the house was $3,500! Do you think the landlord wants to give back the $3,500?

SoCalT said...

$3,100

Anonymous said...

I really dont think she cab charge you because the police told you to file on her and not to let her back in and because of her behaviour,she wont be able to complete her job till you are gone.In fact if it went to court shed more than likely WOULD BE UNABLE TO COLLECT YOUR LAST MONTHS RENT.
Grandma

linnette said...

Yeah, because you cannot even use your bathroom sink! I would go ahead and use it. Just be careful.

SoCalT said...

Dear Diary,

Lunch time break update.

Lynda is outside working on the yard with some of the guys that she usually hires.

I doubt the Sheriffs had a chance to serve her with the restraining order today at her home.

I'm just inside working and luckily already took my trash out for the day etc. so I do not need to go outside at all. Of course, I wouldn't talk to her even if I did have to go out.

But....I can't help but cringe a little. This whole situation is so uncomfortable.

I looked at a few places over the weekend but nothing was quite right. I still have 3 weeks here - I can't wait to move.

The neighbor in back told me the other day that Lynda has thrown many tantrums on him. He said maybe because he is a guy, he puts his foot down and she stops and backs down. But he thought maybe I remind Lynda of her daughter, Lori (we do sort of look alike, people have mistaken me for Lori before when I first moved in). So he thought maybe Lynda thinks she can push me around (literally - LOL) because of that.

SoCalT said...

Hey does anyone know if I need to submit my 30 day notice in writing even if I have a lease agreement that ends at the end of July?

"Term: The premises are leased on the following lease term 1 year until July 31st 2008."

Lynda just came screaming at my door for me to give her 30 days notice. She was yelling that it has to be in writing. I just walked away from the door but......Is that possible when I have a signed lease agreement that ends July 31?

Could it be?

SoCalT said...

2. TERM: The premises are leased on the following lease term: (please
check one item only) _(NO)___ month to month (OR) __1 year__ until
________July 31________,20_08__.


18. TERMINATION OF LEASE/RENTAL AGREEMENT: If this lease is based on a
fixed term, pursuant to paragraph 2, then at the expiration of said
fixed term this lease shall become a month to month tenancy upon the
approval of LANDLORD.

Where said term is a month to month tenancy, either party may terminate
this tenancy by the serving of a 30 day written notice.

linnette said...

No, you do not have to submit a 30-day notice.

linnette said...

Moving at the End of a Lease
A lease expires automatically at the end of
the lease term. The tenant is expected either
to renew the lease before it expires (with the
landlord’s agreement) or to move out. A lease
usually doesn’t require a tenant to give the
landlord any advance written notice when the
lease is about to expire. However, the tenant
should read the lease to see if it has any
provisions covering what happens at the end of
the lease.
Before you move, you may want to give the
landlord a courtesy notice stating that you do not
want to renew your lease.

linnette said...

You do not have a month-to month tenancy. That would only occur if you stayed beyond your lease date.

linnette said...

Do you know if the police served her?


http://www.dca.ca.gov/publications/landlordbook/catenant.pdf

Above link is the California Tenant guide. There is some good info in there as far as getting your deposit back, etc.

SoCalT said...

Mom, I do not know if they served her.

I'm just going through the steps the cops told me to take on my end here, ya know?

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