Owners given one amount, landlords collected different

Oh, the landlords got away with this for a year. $1200.00

I’m not a lawyer but if I were in that situation, here’s what I would do. First, I would secure a written statement from the owner saying that the landlords no longer have the authority to accept payment. The details that I want included would the date that the landlords can no longer accept payment and if the rent increase of $100 per month has truly been the decision of the owner. Next, I will collect all my receipts so I would have proof that I overpaid. Then I will contact a good lawyer and establish my case. If you don’t want to jump to hiring a lawyer, then you can try the assistance of a good mediation company first – file a complaint against the landlord.

…” secure a written statement from the owner saying that the landlords no longer have the authority to accept payment.” DONE
…”collect all my receipts so I would have proof that I overpaid.” DONE
I think I’m going to add one more however…… Instead of raising waves right this second and potentially tip my hand, I’m going to assume that the owners will probably be around with new rental agreements before the end of the month. I’m thinking that if the rent is stated at $325.00, (or if we go to the next month first and they accept the $325.00) then with the “previous” receipts of $325.00 and compare them all to the middle ones of $425.00. ??? As for the lawyer, if a retainer is $1500, and the back owed is $1200 I’d lose money if I lost. And unlike personal injury, I’m sure there IS a fee win or lose. PRO SE ALL THE WAY!