$2.2 Million Housing Settlement: What Proof You Need to Qualify

Renters in Washington D.C. who lived at Meridian Heights Apartments between April 2022 and September 2024 may be entitled to part of a $2.2 million settlement in a tenant rights class-action lawsuit. The lawsuit, filed against Meridian Heights, accuses the company of charging illegal fees and failing to maintain the building’s living conditions, which allegedly included infestations of rodents and insects and mold issues.

Meridian Heights has agreed to settle the lawsuit for $2.2 million but has not admitted to any wrongdoing.

Who is Eligible?

To qualify for compensation, renters must meet the following criteria:

  • Lived at Meridian Heights Apartments between April 4, 2022, and September 30, 2024.
  • Signed a lease or made a rental payment during their tenancy.
  • Experienced at least one housing code violation, such as pest infestations or mold issues.

Compensation Details

Eligible tenants may be entitled to the following benefits:

  • Rent Refunds: Tenants may receive refunds for overpaid rent.
  • Three Months Free Rent: Those who moved in after October 1, 2024 can claim three months of free rent, effective until December 31, 2024.
  • Unpaid Rent Forgiveness: Meridian Heights will forgive $719,000 worth of unpaid rent for eligible tenants.
  • Additional Payments: Tenants who vacated the building before December 31, 2024, may receive additional cash payments.

However, there are specific stipulations:

  • To claim three months of free rent, tenants must have moved in after October 1, 2024.
  • Tenants who owed more than $600 in unpaid rent must have vacated by December 31, 2024, to qualify for the settlement benefits.

Also Read – $197.5M ATM Fee Settlement: How to Get Your One-Time Payment

How to File a Claim

If you believe you’re eligible, you must submit a claim with the following proof:

  • Proof of Residency: Apartment number, current address, Social Security number, birth date, period of residence at the building, and a copy of the lease (if applicable).
  • Rental Payment Proof: Evidence of at least one rental payment made to UIP or Novo.

The deadline to submit a claim is February 4, 2024. The exclusion deadline has already passed, so those who wish to participate in the settlement must file their claim by the given date.

Final Approval and Payment

The settlement will undergo a final hearing on March 27, 2025, after which payments will be distributed. The exact amount each eligible tenant will receive depends on the individual’s circumstances and the number of claims submitted.

If you were affected by the issues at Meridian Heights Apartments, be sure to file your claim before the deadline to secure your share of the settlement .

Layla Hango

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