'If you don't like it, lump it': Colorado apartment residents are being forced to pay a $20 monthly fee for package delivery — even if they don't use the service. What can tenants do?

Stuck paying for a service you don't want

Fourzan's apartment complex, Peakline at Copperleaf, is adding a delivery service called Fetch. With Fetch, residents can open an account and direct their packages to one of the company's distribution centers. Fetch users then schedule a delivery window to receive packages at their door.

But there are potential hiccups with this setup. First, it can delay shipments if Fetch's delivery windows are later than the original delivery time. Additionally, customers may feel they're paying for shipping twice — once to cover the initial shipping costs and again to use Fetch.

According to 9News, Fetch also has an "F" rating with the local chapter of the Better Business Bureau. Customer complaints among Fetch users include delayed deliveries, lost packages and damaged shipments.

In a statement, Fetch told the local broadcaster: "We’re committed to address all issues promptly and continuously improve our processes based on resident and client feedback."

As for the apartment complex, 9News reports it contacted management and was informed its decision to use Fetch was based on delivery issues — including lost and stolen packages — with the mailroom. It claims to have worked with Amazon and local law enforcement to find a solution, but problems persisted. Tenants aren't required to use Fetch and are free to have packages delivered to their door at their own risk, but they will still be charged the monthly fee.

Fourzan summed things up in his own way: "Like it, and if you don't like it, lump it."

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Dealing with extra charges as a tenant

It's not unheard of for renters to be asked to pay added fees mid-lease if their contracts allow for it. If you feel you're being hit with an unjust fee, you may want to review the terms of your lease carefully to see if your landlord is violating any agreements.

In the situation above, Fourzan says he signed a lease addendum to add the "mandatory" $20 delivery fee. An addendum is an attachment to a contract that can introduce new terms. Both parties must agree to them, however, refusing may have consequences down the line. It might pay to brush up on your state's laws regarding tenancy and lease renewals if you encounter this scenario.

If you're in disagreement with your landlord about a fee, you may want to sit down and talk with them. As a longtime tenant with a good track record, they may be willing to negotiate, especially if they're an individual instead of a corporation. Some leases also include the possibility of mediation for disputes.

In the case of a dispute about damage to the unit, you may want to take pictures and document evidence for yourself.

One final option to consider, if the situation is unresolvable, is to ask your landlord to agree to let you out of your lease without a penalty. Moving into a new place comes with its own set of costs, however, if the terms are more favorable, it may be better in the long run. If your landlord agrees to end the lease without any fees — which could be a big if — be sure to get everything in writing.