Debating with a landlord won't hurt your scores any, now, because the landlord doesn't report. However, they could opt to hire a CA or file a judgment and if either reports, then your credit will take a big hit, but that may take months for that to go into play. Under a manual review for a new home, your lender may ask for info from your landlord and that may be an issue. Make sure you follow through with the lease.
