Unexpected and unnecessary charges can burden residents in apartment communities. One such charge is the mandatory trash valet service offered in many complexes, where convenience doesn't necessarily outweigh the cost for everyone. Despite the popularization of such services, a study indicates that 68% of residents in complexes would prefer having a choice in signing up for trash valet services, showcasing the need for more choice in amenities.

We can't undermine the importance of waste management and recycling. This petition isn't aimed at eliminating the service but about residents having the freedom to choose whether they want to avail of it or not. The universal imposition of this fee might be a slight nuisance for some, but for households on strict budgets, it can mean choosing between essential needs and a service they may not require.

We envision a system where trash valet is optional, allowing residents to decide if the service benefits them and if the cost aligns with their needs. Turn trash valet into an opt-in service rather than making it a compulsory cost on our monthly rent bills, and let individual choice drive service implementation. Kindly sign this petition to support change and foster a system of choice and mutual respect between property owners and residents.

--Residents are being charged 65.00 per month in trash and trash valet fees.

--Bulk penalty fee due to trash violations: Renters are also being charged a bulk penalty fee due to trash violations committed by anyone living in the apartment complex. This was not verbalized before paying application fee or signing the lease.

--Pest Control Fee: In addition, Landlords in North Carolina are required to provide pest control as part of their bare minimum legal obligations to tenants, offloading these costs to renters through undisclosed, hidden fees is unlawful.

--Charged a premium fee for budget internet service: Residents are being charged a mandatory fee for Whitesky internet provider for slow/poor internet service. Make this service opt-in or opt-out.

-The North Carolina Consumer Protection Act (NCCPA) is a law that protects consumers from unfair and deceptive trade practices in North Carolina. The NCCPA:
-Prohibits deceptive business practices, such as false advertising and fraudulent schemes
-Allows consumers to take legal action against businesses that engage in these practices
-Provides remedies for consumers who have incurred damages  
 
-North Carolina also has other consumer protection laws, including:  
 
-North Carolina Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act: Regulates how businesses tell consumers about their products 

References

ULU-LANI BOYANTON, Megan. (January 16, 2024)Colorado Woman sues real estate giant Greystar over apartment "junk fees" charged by  landlord. Denver Post. www.denverpost.com/2024/01/16/tenant-lawsuit-greystar-apartment-lease-fees-trash/​

https://ncdoj.gov/file-a-complaint/