After a tenant leaves (voluntarily or via eviction), dealing with belongings left behind requires following legal procedures. You can't just dispose of them.
England & Wales (Torts (Interference with Goods) Act 1977):
- Inventory: Make a detailed list/photos of items left.
- Notice: Serve a formal notice to the tenant (last known address/forwarding address) stating:
- Where the goods are stored.
- That they need to be collected by a specific reasonable date.
- That storage costs may apply.
- That if not collected by the date, the goods will be sold or disposed of.
- Include your contact details.
- Storage: Store goods safely and reasonably.
- Disposal/Sale: If not collected after the notice period, you can sell items (deduct storage/sale costs, owe balance to tenant) or dispose of low-value items reasonably. Keep records!
Scotland: Less prescriptive legislation. Follow tenancy agreement clauses if any. Generally, take reasonable steps to contact the tenant, give reasonable notice to collect, and store items safely for a reasonable period before disposal/sale. Document everything.
Key: Act reasonably, communicate clearly, and document all steps to avoid claims.
