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I'm posting on behalf of my friend, who lives (err, lived) in West Columbus. I had it in mind to tell you about all of the various ills my friend has had happen to her in the past... well, year, but even going back a few years. Getting into nitty gritty details, like electric bill amounts and whatnot. I'll probably continue gathering info and writing a more in-depth version of things, but for now, I'll do my best to summarize her current situation, and what she could use help with sooner rather than later.
She had sewage back up into her apartment last week. Since then, she has not only not received much help from building management, but they have actively made things more difficult for her, and added considerable stress to an already incredibly stressful situation. (Frankly, I think they've made matters worse for themselves as well, but anyhow.) This is after dealing with several months of similar treatment for other issues. The main manager (I'm not sure what to call her... not the main owner) seems to have it out for my friend for whatever reason (being "unreasonable", or something to that effect), and has apparently spoken ill of her enough to make some of the rest of the staff (including the owner) halfway afraid to even talk to my friend. Long story short, it's pretty much doing more harm than good trying to negotiate with the management.
She's currently staying with family, and her most of belongings are in storage. I believe a city inspector allowed her to leave her lease, after management was less than helpful. She's looking for a new place, and possibly some kind of legal help. Maybe even a car; I'm not sure what the status on that is.
For housing, near the Roberts Rd. exit off I-270 (west end) is where her old place is, and she works near there as well. A few days ago, she said she found a place she thought was nice in Gahanna (more east end), but given the news that her car won't be repaired, that may change her expectations. I believe rent would be $550/month max, plus utilities. She's been reluctant to consider roommates in the past, but she might be more flexible now.
For legal, she has talked to a few people this week, but the impression she came away with was that nobody was going to help her without $1,500 up front. I don't know that she'd receive, or even ask $1,500 for the issues she's had. For now, she'd be looking for someone to represent her re: tenant/landlord issues for the most part. She'd really just like a little compensation for things like prorated rent for this month, maybe a little for the various troubles she's dealt with during her time there.
I'm really just hoping someone will help her. I have the time, but not the experience, or knowledge, or money to deal with any of this. Not to mention I live in Canada, 5+ hours away. I'm pretty much good for distant support, and maybe hauling boxes once she has a place to stay. She does have local friends and family she can turn to, and she has an alright job, so I don't want to make it seem like she's had the saddest life ever lived. But she has been kicked around so much in recent years. It's taken a remarkable toll on her health, and her spirit. It would be nice if she could have someone to stick up for her, and be able to make a difference for her.
Thanks very much.
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