Your tenant has finally vacated and now it’s time to do the move-out inspection. But when you walk inside, you find they’ve left all sorts of things behind. Trash, furniture, and other personal items, to be exact. So what do you do with your tenant’s abandoned property? The answer isn’t as simple as throwing it away.
What To Do With Abandoned Property
When you find that your tenant has left behind a few items, the first thing to do is familiarize yourself with the law. Many states have differing laws regarding what can and can’t be done with a tenant’s abandoned property. These laws can also vary from county to county, so be sure to do your research in order to avoid any legal trouble. Consult with a local real estate attorney to get the best advice on how to proceed. The last thing you want to do is end up with a hefty lawsuit over throwing something away.
Documentation is Key
Another crucial step in the process is to document the condition of the property as well as the items that have been left behind. A picture is worth a thousand words, and it’s even more valuable when it comes with an itemized list of all the abandoned property. Documentation is key for when you process the security deposit as well. It helps to have proof for why something was withheld, and nothing speaks louder than visual documentation!
Common Sense Is Critical
After verifying that you have followed all required steps and now have the legal right to dispose of any abandoned property, the next step is to start cleaning things up. Be sure to verify if the cost to dispose of the items can or can’t be charged to the tenant’s deposit before you start deducting. Remember, laws vary on what you can do with the items, how long you have to hold on to them, etc., so be sure to consult proper legal counsel before moving forward. Having all your I’s dotted and t’s crossed before proceeding is just common sense.
Dealing with a tenant’s abandoned property is never easy even in the smoothest of situations. They take up valuable time and resources, and can cost a pretty penny depending on what’s left behind. Not to mention the legal liability that can arise if things aren’t handled properly. This is why having a professional property manager like Real Property Management Colorado on your side can make a huge difference. Our team has the knowledge and expertise to handle these types of situations so you’re not stuck navigating these challenges alone. Give us a call at 303-873-RENT (7368) or contact us now!
