property manager unauthorized and unexplained repairs

[Todd M.]

Hi,

My Property Management company recently performed over $1500 in repairs on a fourplex which I did NOT authorize. Our contract clearly states I have to approve anything over $300.

When I called them on it, they said I gave verbal authorization to the repair person. But, this is impossible since the first time I met this person is weeks after the repairs. I've explained this to them already.

They've already taken the $1500 out of monthly rents already.

They hired a new manager two months ago and I knew this guy was a doofus from the get go.

When I ask for a breakdown of the $1500, he says they are putting it together, but it's a bunch of chicken scratched notes and lost receipts.

I told them this isn't right.

I have an email trail and have engaged the owner of the PM company. The owner keeps telling me he'll get back to me, but it's been a week. I'm in MN and he's based in UT.

So, I'm new to PM relations. But, this just doesn't seem right.

Any suggestions? Any recourse?

Bring in a lawyer? If so, what kind of lawyer am I looking for? Lawyers are expensive.

If I fire them now, I'll need to pay 3 months of management fees for 4 units.

-Todd