Tenant storing a bunch of belongings in communal spaces

[Dustin Le]

The tenant has been using communal spaces as storage, such as the laundry room or carport, along with backyard. I didn’t have this rule in my original lease (I’ve added it since). My question is, is there a way to force them to remove their belongings without originally having it in the lease, if it’s not a fire hazard?

[Richard F.]

Aloha,

For multi-family or rent by room situations you must have a set of "House Rules" that apply to all Residents. These should be posted in a conspicuous location, AND attached to their Rental Agreement at signing. Typically you need 30 days or more notice to the Tenants before implementing/enforcing new or updated rules (check local LL/Tenant laws). You also might consider creating some storage spaces that you can charge additional rent for.

Having said that, for anything in a common area I would post a notice on main entry to the property, and each unit entry, and in the vicinity of the stored items, that they will be disposed of if not removed in 7 days.