When can you start removing tenants stuff?

Question

On Easter Sunday I had a tenant call me and tell me that state troopers were in the parking lot talking to another tenant.

I followed up with the tenant who was talking to the police and heard nothing. The next day the tenant deleted his Facebook and still refused to communicate with me.

The next morning I received a call from the tenants  parents asking to go in the apartment and get their sons cat and a few items.

Finally the tennant called me and told me is was ok for their parent to get the cat and a few items( tv and bedroom suit).

The tenant also gave me a 30 day notice when we spoke.

He was super vague and told me he was moving to Florida but would be back to get his stuff.

I honestly don’t think I will see him again and I’m wanting to know when I can go in his unit and start cleaning it out.

Account Closed · Answer

Google your state's laws.  This is your business.  You should know them.

Erik W. · Answer

Contact a local, experience, land lord/tenant attorney and get the correct answer.  Yes, it might cost you a $100-200 legal bill, but if you do this wrong it could cost you thousands.

The general answer is you can get rid of the tenant's leftover personal property once the lease has been terminated and possession has been granted to you by 1) the tenant handing over keys or 2) abandonment as defined by your state statutes.  However, it's not quite that simple.  Some states require you store tenants possessions for a period of time.  Others don't.  As I said, spend a few bucks and learn the correct answer, not an answer by some well-meaning (but ignorant of your state laws) LLs on an open, public forum.  We're nice, helpful people, but we don't know everything.  (*grins)

Account Closed · Answer

Learning yourself is ok. Tempting to come to a forum for the "easy" answer, but the best answer here is a redirection to your local laws. Probably a click or two away from where you are right now. If you are still unclear, consult a lawyer. Generally, the landlord can not just start getting rid of a tenants stuff - it's a "process of permission" so to speak.

Theresa Harris · Answer

He gave 30 days' notice and I'm assuming his rent is paid through that time?  You have his number (since he called you) and his parent's number.  Contact him first and then his parents if there is no reply after a few days and ask for a move out date.  If he hasn't paid rent for May, then see if he wants to move out sooner.

Stephen J Davis · Answer

Read your lease about abandoning the apartment. Then call the judges office that would handle the eviction if necessary. They can instruct you.

Michael King · Answer

How could he delete his facebook from jail?

When can you start removing tenants stuff?

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