Consumer complaint received 2025-06-05 00:00:00
Product: Debt collection — I do not know
Issue: Took or threatened to take negative or legal action — Threatened or suggested your credit would be damaged
Company: Aldous & Associates, PLLC
State: MI

Complaint narrative:
I contacted Aldous & Associates regarding a collection account for XXXX XXXX XXXX  ( Account # XXXX ). The representative confirmed the balance was reported to my credit, but refused to provide a breakdown of charges or any form of written validation unless I mailed a request to a PO Box . 

I clearly and calmly disputed the debt and asked for itemization. I explained the property was vacated early due to serious health and safety concerns ( mold, water damage, XXXX XXXX, XXXX XXXX ), and that I had communicated with the landlord before leaving. I offered to submit photos and explained this could be a wrongful debt. 

Despite this, the agent would not help and referred only to mailing a written request. This delays resolution, especially since the debt is already negatively impacting my credit. 

I recorded the call and am attaching a transcript. This is a violation of FDCPA 15 USC 1692g and Fair Credit Reporting Act ( FCRA ) rules regarding disputed debts.

I am requesting a full investigation and the removal of this collection account due to lack of timely validation and wrongful reporting.

-Call Transcript - Representative : Thank you for calling Aldous & Associates . Can I get your first and last name? 

You : My name is XXXX XXXX. 

Representative : Is this the number you're calling from XXXX? 

You : Yes, that's the number. 

Representative : I also have a record under XXXX XXXX? 

You : Yes, that's my legal name. I go by XXXX. 

You : I received a recent collection notice from your office for XXXX XXXX XXXX. I'm calling to state that I do not recognize this debt and formally dispute its validity. 

Representative : We have a matter here from XXXX XXXX for {$2000.00}. This is an attempt to collect a debt and may be monitored or recorded. You said you're not recognizing this debt? 

You : Correct. My family and I vacated the property due to serious health and safety issues, ongoing water damage, visible mold, unsanitary carpet, and even gunfire incidents within the building. Our vehicle was also stolen right outside the unit while we were asleep. We had no choice but to leave early for our safety. 

You : I had ongoing communication with XXXX XXXX, the property manager, and I may still have photos of the conditions. I also received lease renewal notices during this period, and we were near the end of our term. I dont know what this balance is for. I had previously sent a letter to XXXX XXXX, but I believe it was from an email account I no longer have access to. 

You : Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, Im requesting full written validation of this debt. I also want to inform you that Ill be filing a formal complaint with the CFPB, the FTC, and my State Attorney Generals office. Ill also report this collection to the credit bureaus as disputed. 

Representative : Since you mentioned legal steps, Im going to transfer you to a supervisor who can better assist you. 

[ On hold, transferred to Supervisor " XXXX XXXX '' ] Supervisor : This is XXXX XXXX, supervisor. Can I get your name? 

You : XXXX XXXX. 

Supervisor : Do you have the account number? 


You : Yes, its XXXX. 

Supervisor : Thank you. Just to confirm, XXXX XXXX? 

You : Yes, thats correct. I go by XXXX. Im the third in line in my family. 

Supervisor : Got it. I need to inform you that this is a debt collection call. Any information may be used for that purpose. This call may be recorded. The balance we have is {$2000.00}. 

You : Im repeating my dispute about this debt. We left the property due to dangerous conditions, health and safety violations, XXXX XXXX, theft, and environmental hazards. We were close to the leases end, and I was in communication with management. I never received formal notice that this would be sent to collections. I am not responsible for this balance. 

You : Im requesting full written validation of the debt, and as mentioned, Ill be reporting this to federal and state agencies. 

Supervisor : I acknowledge your right to dispute the account. However, unless our office receives your dispute in writing, the FDCPA does not require us to cease collection or provide documentation. 

You : I receive emails from your office. 

Supervisor : Written requests must go to our PO Box address. Do you, have it? 

You : No, but thats fine. Ill also be submitting complaints online. Those generally receive faster responses within 15 days. 

Supervisor : Understood. Have a good rest of your day. 

You : Before we finish, what does the balance include? 

Supervisor : It's the original balance along with any added fees. You can request a detailed breakdown in writing. 

You : So, you're not giving me that information now? 

Supervisor : Correct. It must be requested in writing. 

You : Even though its already hurting my credit? 

Supervisor : That is correct. 

You : You're refusing to give me a breakdown over the phone? 


Supervisor : That is correct. 

You : What's your name again? 

Supervisor : XXXX XXXX. 

You : Badge number or employee ID? 

Supervisor : I dont have one. I'm the only XXXX in this office. 

You : Got it. Thank you. Have a good night. 

Supervisor : You too. 

End of transcript

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation