Question:

My landlord is requiring all tenants to start utilizing a valet trash collection service. No fee under the current lease; however, a monthly fee will be charged upon signing a new lease. Legally, can a landlord force me to utilize a service I do not need or want, thereby raising my monthly rent? (I live in Houston, Texas 77077)

Jim's Reply:

Probably. The only way to know for sure is to find an attorney who will help you to file paperwork to haul the landlord into court and then you can see what a judge has to say. That'll cost you a lot more than the few dollars rent increase but I understand that sometimes it's the principle of the thing. You may ask a lawyer to review your lease agreement for any holes...that shouldn't be more than a few dollars and you'll have a better idea of what your obligation is.,

• PS from StatesideLegal:  If you are a veteran, you may also want to check with the Veterans Legal Initiative in Houston,  which is listed on our Find Legal Help directory here