Are there consequences for a real estate agent for illegally subletting an apartment?
Posted on February 4th, 2010 in Renting & Real Estate | 4 Comments »
Natalia asked:
An apartment locator brought her daughter to lease and apartment with us. Two months later we found out that there was a different person (not the daughter) living in that apartment. This other person said she was supposed to live in that apartment and she had a written contract with the real estate agent. Are there any consequences for the real estate agent for illegally subletting an apartment she had no right to?
4 Responses
Walk In Bathtub
Sure. She could lose her license, or have her licenses suspended, and/or be fined.
Each state has a regulatory department overseeing real estate agents. Find yours, then ask how to file a disciplinary action.
Ventura County Real Estate
It depends on the lease you signed. Did it include language that prohibits a sublease? Because unless subleasing is specifically prohibited in your area then it’s probably ok. Otherwise, why would you assume it’s illegal?
Mesa Real Estate Listings
ummmm…I do not know.
It is the broker that is in trouble though, they have legal responsibility when their agents do illegal things.
If you suffered some sort of loss you can sue, you would sue the broker.
Either way you turn them into your states real estate board. It sounds like they may be committing fraud and double dipping on the rent (collecting more then you know about and being paid by you).
Rio Linda Home and Condos
“This person said…” Did they SHOW it to you? Contact the state board of real estate and file a formal complaint AFTER you see the lease.