Tenants left stuff behind

[Andrew Solberg]

Hey all, I’m looking at a duplex and have a question. In one of the units, the tenant owed the owner a bunch of money on back rent, and eventually just abandon the property with all of their belongings left behind. Clothes, bed, couches, chairs. If I were to purchase this property, does anyone know the law(s) or legality of this situation. Is it my possession upon property of sale? Or do you have to give notice to the tenant? Wondering if anyone knows or has dealt with a situation like this.

[Peter B.]

I would check your state landlord tenant law. Here in Wisconsin we no longer have to store belongings anymore. It is considered abandoned as soon as tenancy is up. 

As for what to do with it. Craigslist,rummage sale, or goodwill anything of value..

The rest I would get some beer, invite some friends over and have a bonfire.. Stand back though couches go up fast!