How can I threaten my apartment complex with legal action regarding cable wiring issue?

[egan]

I moved into my apartment July 7th. We had Comcast, the only cable service we are allowed to have in the complex (satellites aren't allowed) come out a few days after moving in and they had a problem receiving a signal. Comcast was unsure why this was happening because the previously tenants had cable and they moved out a week before we moved it. After trying to contact my complex regarding the issue and having comcast come out 4 more times, we finally received an answer as to why, almost a month later we do not have cable. Apparently, the wires that ran into my unit were cut and are being used by another unit and comcast must replace mine and various other's wires as they are not being used properly. Comcast has tried contacting the complex about this issue as we are not the only ones without cable and the complex is dragging their feet getting this done while preventing my unit (as well as others) from getting cable and internet service.It seems as though they do not want to spend the money getting this done and using any kind of short cuts they can to avoid this (cutting my cable wires to give someone else cable, etc). They have not returned my calls about this to me or Comcast, and Comcast has told me that it is up to them to get this done.

I live in NJ and found the NJ department of Community Affairs Division of Codes and Standards page listing the (laws?) regarding something like this. The first line says "No owner of any dwelling or his agent shall forbid or prevent any tenant of such dwelling from receiving cable television service."

Is this sufficient enough to help me get things resolved faster?

[amdt57]

I'm sure that they're aware that they aren't allowed to prevent you from getting cable service (http://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/codes/publications/pdf_lti/cable_tv.pdf), but if they don't, there's not much you can do about it except file a complaint with the Housing Authority and cite the relevant part of the Code.

I'm sure if they don't comply there would be some sort of fine. So, talk to your complex manager and tell him about the code (use the link I gave you) he is in violation of and that if he doesn't rectify it immediately, you're filing a complaint with the housing board.

Of course, keep in mind that he will then evict you for any minor violation of your lease, so hopefully you're a perfect tenant.

[dureau]

First of all, the complex cannot forbid residents to have satellite dishes! The FCC regulations supercede the complex rules. Just want to let you know. The code you quoted is excellent. Send a letter to the apartment owner, not the manager, regarding the violation of your rights. You can find the owners' info if u do a property search online, usually. It's public information. State that unless the problem is resolved within 14 days, you will have no choice but to file a case against them in Small Claims Court. Keep a copy of the letter for yourself. You can also ask for any additional expenses u incurred by having the cable company come out numerous times. Usually, the threat of legal action is sufficient to get an owner to take care of a problem. The owner may not even be aware of what the manager is doing.