A proposed class action lawsuit has been filed against Essex Management Corp., a California multifamily landlord, by tenant Andrea McAdams. The suit alleges that Essex wrongfully charged “hidden and misleading” rent fees to tenants of its 60,000+ apartments in California and Washington. McAdams claims Essex used “drip pricing” to conceal the true cost of rent, revealing mandatory fees only after tenants had invested in application fees and potential moving expenses. These hidden rent fees include charges for trash, insurance, and utilities, which are allegedly not disclosed until after non-refundable application fees are paid.
McAdams seeks to represent a nationwide class and a California subclass of Essex tenants, citing breach of contract, unjust enrichment, and violations of California consumer protection laws. The lawsuit was filed on October 4, 2024, in California federal court. Siri & Glimstad LLP is representing the proposed class, with attorneys Kyle McLean, Lisa R. Considine, David J. DiSabato, and Leslie L. Pescia named as class counsel. Considine commented on the impact of undisclosed hidden rent fees on tenants’ ability to make informed housing choices.