Roommate’s Unlawful Actions: Is Charging for Cleaning Legal?

Have you ever found your personal belongings repeatedly going through by your roommate, only to be charged a 25 cleaning fee each time this happens? Is this legal?

Illegal or Not? The Legal Tweaks

Let's dissect this situation through a legal lens. Clearing the air regarding legality, there are certainly grounds for concern:

Privacy Violation: Your roommate infringing on your privacy by going through your belongings without permission can be seen as an invasion. It is akin to going through your mail or backpack without asking, which isn't right from a privacy standpoint. Charging for a Service Not Requested: If you haven't agreed or requested such a service, and she is charging you for cleaning that you did not ask for, it is improper and potentially unlawful.

What to Do: An Action Plan

First and foremost, here are some immediate steps you can take to address the issue:

Move Out or Change Locks: If your roommate continues to go through your things, it may be time to reevaluate your living situation. Moving out is a drastic measure, but ensuring your privacy is paramount. Alternatively, changing the locks might be a more feasible solution. Disagree on Codependency: Consider whether your relationship with your roommate is codependent. Codependency can often lead to issues of trust and respect. Evaluate if she is adding undue stress to your living arrangement.

Who Owns the Cleaning Fee?

The general opinion is that a 25 cleaning fee for unauthorized cleaning can be dodgy legally. Some key points to consider include:

More Than Just a Fee: Charging for cleaning without a mutual agreement can escalate into a payment dispute, especially if the cleaning was of shared areas only. Landlord Involvement: If your apartment violates hygiene or fire safety codes due to your roommate’s actions, the landlord or even the health department might intervene. This is especially concerning if your living conditions meet health and safety codes.

Additionally, the following situation might affect your decision:

Shared Spaces Cleansed: If she is cleaning shared spaces, a negotiated agreement might be beneficial. However, if she is accessing your personal belongings and cleaning them, a boundary must be set. Open Communication: Prioritizing open communication with your roommate to establish clearer expectations can prevent further issues. A legal document or written agreement might be beneficial, especially if you find yourselves in a dispute.

Assessing the Option to Pay

It's worth considering whether paying the fee is worth the invasion of privacy and potential legal implications:

Trade-Offs: Assess whether the cleanliness of the apartment justifies the infringement on your privacy. Is the 25 fee a reasonable price for peace of mind? Alternatives: If you can agree on how to keep the shared spaces clean, a cleaning plan without the fee might be beneficial. Set ground rules and ensure they are respected by all parties.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with a roommate who repeatedly goes through your things is a delicate and potentially legal issue. It is important to address the underlying issue of trust and respect in the relationship. Whether moving out, changing locks, or agreeing on shared cleaning responsibilities, finding a solution that respects both your privacy and the cleanliness of the space is essential.

For any further concerns, seeking legal advice can provide clarity and guidance on the best course of action.