When Your Tenants Leave Things Behind

May 1, 2021

Dealing with abandoned belongings after a tenant moves out can be a frustrating and time-consuming task for landlords and property managers. Whether a tenant leaves unexpectedly, moves out in a hurry, or simply doesn't bother to take everything with them, you're left with the responsibility of handling their leftover items. Before you start clearing things out, it's important to understand your legal obligations and the best way to manage the cleanup process. Here's what you need to know to handle the situation smoothly and efficiently.

Determine the Protocol

Before you throw everything out onto the street, you need to know the exact reason the tenant left, and what that entails for their belongings.


  • Lease-ended/Tenants Chose to Leave: Under these circumstances, the tenants have chosen to move out of their own free will, and depending on the contract and state laws, you might have to store their belongings for a weeks or so after the lease finished before taking possession. 
  • Property Owner Served Termination Notice: Even though the tenants might not have chosen to leave, they have been given the final day, and plenty of time to move their belongings out. For most states, you have complete freedom to do what you want with the things left behind.
  • Eviction: This is usually the most complicated situation to navigate. Most likely, local law enforcement will be involved, and will instruct you on how to proceed. 

Taking Inventory

Next, once you've determined the correct process, it's time to do a complete walkthrough of the property, keeping in mind what appliances/furniture originally came with the property.


  • Furniture/Personal Belongings: Depending on the situation, you might need to store these items for a short amount of time before selling, donating, keeping, or disposing of the items.
  • Fixtures: If the tenants added a fixture (hooks, shelving, etc.), you can choose to keep it, or remove it, depending on your preference.
  • Garbage: This category is the simplest- throw it out! You don't even have to do it yourself- get ateam of professionals to do it for you!


Once you've dealt with any necessary authorities, and stored any belongings, contact the tenant about their belongings. If they don't retrieve them in the specified amount of time (set by local/state laws), it's your property to do with as you wish.

We Vaant to Take THEIR Junk

Need to get rid of broken furniture, old mattresses, or loads of garbage? Count Junkula knows exactly what to do with any items you need taken off your hands in the Greater Raleigh area. Property managers have a team of experts they can rely on! Contact us with any questions, or to make an appointment!

frequently asked questions

  • Can I immediately dispose of or keep the items left behind?

    Generally, you cannot immediately dispose of or keep the items. You must follow the proper legal procedures to protect yourself and your tenants' rights. Providing notice and allowing a reasonable time for retrieval is usually required.

  • How long should I wait before disposing of the abandoned items?

    The specific time frame varies depending on local laws and regulations. It can range from a few days to several weeks. Check with your local jurisdiction or consult legal counsel to ensure compliance with the appropriate timeframe.

  • Can I charge the tenants for the cost of removing or storing their abandoned items?

    In some cases, you may be allowed to charge the tenants for reasonable costs associated with removing, storing, or disposing of their abandoned items. However, it's crucial to consult local laws and regulations or seek legal advice to understand your rights and obligations regarding such charges.

  • What steps should I take to document the abandoned items?

    It's important to thoroughly document the abandoned items to protect yourself and provide evidence if needed. Take photographs or videos of the items, noting their condition and location within the property. Keep records of any communication with the tenants regarding the abandoned belongings.

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