Consumer complaint received 2025-06-27 00:00:00
Product: Debt collection — Rental debt
Issue: False statements or representation — Attempted to collect wrong amount
Company: National Credit Systems,Inc.
State: CA

Complaint narrative:
I am writing to formally dispute an inaccurate and unjust collection entry that appears on my credit report. The entry is listed by XXXX at XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX, NC ) in the amount of {$23000.00}. This is not only incorrect but also unsupported and misleading. 
I rented an apartment at XXXX at XXXX XXXX without seeing it in person, as I was relocating from California to North Carolina. Prior to moving, I made it explicitly clear to the leasing office that my son has severe allergies and respiratory issues, and we were assured the unit would be like new, smoke-free, and equipped with brand-new carpet. Upon arrival, however, it was immediately evident we had been misled.

The apartment was in deplorable condition : The carpet was extremely dirty, full of pet hair, and severely aggravated my son 's breathing issues.

The unit smelled strongly of cigarette smoke, despite being advertised as smoke-free.

There were multiple leaks, defective fixtures, damaged flooring, and significant water intrusion during rain. 
The garage did not lock, leaving our unit unsecured 24/7.

Unlawful entries by maintenance occurred despite clear instructions that entry must happen only with someone present.

Despite numerous complaints, nothing was resolved by management.

Compounding these issues, Hurricane Helene hit the region, which became the final factor in our decision to vacate the uninhabitable unit. I submitted both written and emailed notice to management ( proof enclosed ), paid the full months rent, and hired a professional cleaning service to leave the apartment in better condition than I received it. I also returned all keys and fobs ( for which I paid over {$100.00} ).

Months later, I was shocked to receive a notice for {$490.00} from the apartment complex, which then escalated without further notice to an outrageous {$23000.00} collection.

Please note the following : I was a tenant for less than one month.

I paid all owed rent.

I gave proper notice and vacated responsibly.

I was never notified of this collection before it appeared on my credit report.

I have witness statements, cleaning receipts, proof of written notice, and emails verifying my claims ( all attached ).

The unit was rented shortly after my departure, according to a current resident, making any claim of lost rent invalid.

I am currently working with legal counsel regarding this issue and pursuing action related to mold exposure and health damage caused by the apartments condition. This collection entry is not only factually inaccurate but appears to be a malicious and retaliatory act by the landlord to intimidate me after I exposed their unacceptable living conditions.

Per the Fair Credit Reporting Act ( FCRA ), I request that this item be thoroughly investigated and removed from my credit report immediately. I am requesting : A full reinvestigation of this debt Removal of the {$23000.00} collection entry if it can not be validated A written confirmation of the outcome of this dispute Please confirm receipt of this dispute and notify me in writing when the investigation is complete.

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation