Inch & Company Property Management LLC, a leading property manager in York County, Pennsylvania, has recently been fined $8,000 due to their violation of the Federal Consumer Review Fairness Act and Pennsylvania Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law. The company had included a clause in their leases that not only prevented tenants from posting negative online reviews, but also imposed financial penalties on those who did.
Attorney General Michelle Henry underscored the significance of online reviews for consumers, emphasizing that such clauses hindered tenants from sharing their honest experiences. She urged consumers to conduct thorough research and consider available reviews before entering into any rental contracts.
With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Inch & Company Property Management LLC manages a portfolio of more than 4,500 rental units across Central Pennsylvania and Maryland. The company’s website proudly highlights its commitment to providing satisfactory living experiences for its tenants.
As part of the settlement, Inch & Company Property Management LLC is now required to comply with the Consumer Protection Law and Consumer Review Fairness Act of 2016. They are prohibited from incorporating non-disparagement clauses into their tenant contracts. The settlement amount of $8,000 will be allocated accordingly: $5,000 will cover costs incurred by the Commonwealth and the Attorney General’s office, while the remaining $3,000 will serve as civil penalties, donated to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Department of Treasury.
FAQ:
Q: Why was Inch & Company Property Management LLC fined?
A: Inch & Company Property Management LLC was fined for including clauses in their leases that prohibited and penalized tenants from posting negative online reviews.
Q: How much is the settlement?
A: The settlement amounts to $8,000.
Q: How many rental units does Inch & Company manage?
A: Inch & Company manages over 4,500 rental units in Central Pennsylvania and Maryland.
Q: What laws did Inch & Company violate?
A: Inch & Company violated the Federal Consumer Review Fairness Act and Pennsylvania Unfair Trade Practices and Consumer Protection Law.