COLUMBIA, S.C. — Confusion and Concern Loom over Eviction Notices
Residents at the Columbia Gardens Apartments are feeling a mix of anger and bewilderment after receiving eviction notices last Friday. The notices came as a shock, especially since many tenants claim they have always paid their rent on time. One resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, opened up about her frustrating experience dealing with the apartment’s property management.
A Shocking Revelation
During a recent meeting with the property manager, she was informed, “If you don’t have the proof, you didn’t pay.” This statement left her feeling disheartened, particularly because she had been told just two months before that there were no pending charges against her account.
The eviction notice claimed she owed a staggering amount of $7,600. This was an alarming twist for her, especially since she had been assured that everything was in order. “My ledger told me I haven’t paid rent since 2020, basically, since I paid them a deposit to move in here, which was almost five years ago,” she lamented. “That’s impossible. I was dropping my money orders in the drop box just like everyone else. Where’s our money?”
Lack of Communication Adds Frustration
Residents are expressing their dissatisfaction with the property management’s lack of communication. One person shared her frustration, stating, “No one answers the phone anymore. We sent emails. No one responds back.” It seems that many tenants are finding it increasingly difficult to get answers, which is leaving them feeling stuck and confused.
Another major issue many residents are facing is the absence of an online portal to check their previous payments. This has led to even more confusion, as residents are unable to verify their payment history easily.
More Issues with Corporate Management
In addition to frustrations with the on-site management, residents reported disheartening interactions with corporate management. One resident recounted, “When we went up to the office this past Monday, the woman with corporate said, ‘We don’t fix anything because you guys don’t pay rent.’” This remark did little to alleviate the residents’ concerns and only added to their feelings of betrayal.
Seeking Answers
In light of these troubling circumstances, it is crucial to highlight that the South Carolina Housing Authority does not send out eviction notices or handle the calculation of rent owed by residents. This has raised more questions about how these notices were generated in the first place.
In an effort to get some clarity on the situation, attempts were made to reach out to the Beacon Property Management Company for more information regarding the eviction notices and the alleged back rent. However, no response has been made as of now, despite multiple voicemails and emails that have been sent since Monday.
Residents Rally for Answers
As the situation continues to unravel, it’s clear that residents at Columbia Gardens Apartments are in a state of distress. They are urging property management to step up and provide the necessary answers. Few things are more unsettling than the prospect of eviction, especially when tenants are convinced they have been responsible in managing their rent payments.
This unfortunate episode at Columbia Gardens serves as a vivid reminder about the importance of clear communication and transparency between property management and tenants. For now, the residents remain hopeful for a swift resolution and a return to normalcy, but they are ready to stand united in demanding their rights.
