Photo credit venoproperties.com
In a recent court proceeding, a woman named Magdalene Prince faced legal action to recover $9,000 in unpaid rent that had been accumulating since April 2020.
The case was brought by landlord Simon Kennedy, who appeared before Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel to address the matter.
Prince, who is still living in the rental property, represented herself without legal counsel. During the hearing, she acknowledged her ongoing residence and mentioned that she is currently making rent payments.
However, she proposed a minimal offer of $150 towards the arrears, which Magistrate Emanuel quickly deemed inadequate, emphasizing that such a plan would prolong the settlement process unnecessarily.
After deliberation, a compromise was reached: Prince will pay $300 a month towards her rental debts. Should she find this arrangement unmanageable, the court will assist in finding her an alternative living situation.
The settlement also includes Simon Kennedy’s legal fees, bringing the total owed to $10,000. The first installment, to be made at Kennedy’s attorney’s office at the end of June this year.
women spend more money on their hair nails etc before paying house rent
U don’t even know what the lady going thru and hear ur remarks u done ready to judge her that new movie Tyler Perry put out just prove it all about black people
Look how long COVID done I mean how much of a grace period that lady needed. That landlord have more patience than Job in the Bible
People fall on hard times. I believe every situation should be examined. There are some people who put everything else before paying their rents like Red Eye and Blue Jeans and Farmers Only. Yet there are those who lose their jobs or have medical emergencies. I hope this persons debt is paid
Juju bee. Sometimes I cannot tolerate your comments. If you walk a mile in someone’s shoes then you could probably understand what the person is dealing with. I guess you were never broke in your life. I don’t wish it on you but many of us walked that mile
Sad how no one mentioned the landlord might be paying the mortgage for her to live for free, and the landlord falling on hard times, 5 years ridiculous, consumer affairs is a waste of time years now can’t collect my money from a tenant but they are good on telling landlord the rights of the tenant.
This situation shows how difficult it is for renters struggling with financial hardship, especially after the pandemic. The government needs to step up with stronger tenant protections and affordable housing solutions, so people like Magdalene don’t face eviction or unbearable debt.
This case highlights the ongoing housing crisis in Antigua and Barbuda. It’s not enough to just mediate between landlords and tenants. we need comprehensive policies addressing affordable housing, rent regulation, and social safety nets to prevent situations like this.