questions & answers

Question: My lease ended and I moved from my apartment earlier than I originally anticipated. When planning my move I had submitted a request to forward my mail with an effective date of June 1st because I wasn't anticipating moving early but that's the way the movers worked out. I asked my old complex if they would allow me to get my mail from my box since I have turned in my keys to them already and they said no. I also asked if they would get the mail and just allow me to pick it up and they said no to that too. Are they allowed to withhold my access to my mail?

Answer: Doing anything with someone else's mail is a possible federal criminal offense. You should also ask your old manager for your mail IN WRITING. Keep a copy for yourself and be sure and date the request. You should also speak to the mail carrier at your old location and ask her to talk to the manager. If that doesn't work, I'd suggest you call the US Attorney's Office and discuss this matter. Your landlord has no right to withhold your mail from you. You should however be sure and give him/her a forwarding address so they can return your deposit....and possibly forward your mail.