DEAR HARRIETTE: My cousin “Sheila” agreed to split the rent with me when she moved into my apartment, with me covering the entire deposit. Our apartment has two rooms, one for my fiance and me, and the other for Sheila and her boyfriend. I am a person with a physical disability and constant need of a wheelchair, so the limited space in the common area is already a challenge. Despite this, Sheila unexpectedly brought her mother, her mother's child and her brother to stay in the apartment. I explained that they could stay temporarily but would need to find alternative accommodation due to the cramped living conditions. However, Sheila has not made arrangements for them to leave and is now trying to guilt trip me by stating that they are family. Am I being unreasonable in this situation? -- Renter's Struggle
DEAR RENTER’S STRUGGLE: Now is the time for you to put your foot down. The longer she stays, the harder it will be for you to get her out. Talk to your super to see if they can put pressure on her, too. Perhaps there are codes about how many people can live in a space in your building. Do not give in to her guilt trip. She has tried to change the rules after moving in, which is unfair. Make Sheila’s time uncomfortable while she is in your space so that you can get her out as soon as possible. Get your super to help you.