Grandpa,
My roommate owns the house. There are (several) of us living here. The one who owns the house was just put on probation. (The owner) notified us that by virtue of the probation every room in the house can be searched without a warrant at any time by the probation officer and/or police. There are other rules such as no internet connections and no liquor in the house. Is this true? How can they search renter’s rooms when we are not on probation? Can I get out of my lease because of this situation? I am not the criminal; I should not have to live like one.
Grandpa says: I am not an attorney; hence I will give you no legal advice. Your room can be searched by the probation officer, et al, because it is under the control of the landlord who is on probation. I would suspect that because the rules of your tenancy changed, you have the right to quit the tenancy. Yet, if you have nothing to hide from the law, what would it matter?
As to internet service, you can check with the landlord’s probation officer about having your computer password protected to keep your landlord from using it. The bottom line is, you need to decide if you would rather live under the new conditions or move out. If you choose to move out, notify the landlord immediately, in writing, stating the reasons. Keep a copy of the letter. I do not believe the landlord would fight you on this in court. Most probationers want to stay as far away from court as they can get. The key word for you is civility. Be open and above board in all your dealings; you will minimize your stress levels. I bid you peace.
Grandpa,
I recently had my floors re-carpeted. The installer was a dream. He is about my age and the most gorgeous man I have seen since high school. I let him know that I am single and available. He took no notice. I offered coffee or a cold drink. He politely declined. I made sure he put my phone number on the receipt and I put it on my check when I paid him. I did everything I could to get his attention. I looked at his hand to be sure there was no wedding ring. I don’t know how to get back in touch with him as he was sent out by the store where I ordered the carpet. How can I find this man to ask him to come out for dinner?
Grandpa says: Given the information you sent, I would say your best bet is to consult a crystal ball or tea leaves in the bottom of your tea cup. No wedding band does not mean no commitment. Men do not wear engagement rings. Smart men who use tools do not wear wedding bans while working. It is a safety issue. Even smarter men who work in other’s homes do not give out personal information, or accept solicitous offers. You bought a carpet, not an installer.
Got something stuck in your craw? Ask Grandpa. Address your letters to Ask Grandpa c/o The Voice, PO Box 123,
Aurora, IL 60507 or send an E-mail to askgrandpa@thevoice.us.