Leasing Fee Dispute with Property Manager

[Jesse Tannetta]

I have a property management company that filled my vacant duplex in September.  They charged me a leasing fee for placing the tenants, which I know is industry standard. However, the language in the contract I have with them is below and sounds to me like the tenant should have been responsible. Any insight on whether this is correct or if I should continue to dispute it with them?

"Broker and owner agree to a leasing fee equal to 1 month’s rent paid at the time of tenant lease signing and paid by the tenant."

[Ben Scott]

I would read that as the PM is due the lease fee once the tenant pays for that first month. Poorly worded sentence on the agreement but I'd say that's the spirit of the language.