Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

Personal Property Loss Claim?

I had everything I own in storage with a self-service storage facility. I got behind in my rent. I received a pre lien notice but never received notice of a lien sale or the opposition to lien sale form. The storage co. did not place an add announcing a lien sale w/date/time of sale, descrip. of my property, their add, my name or the unit #'s to be auctioned. The storage company did not auction my property or sell my property. The owner and his emp. ransacked EVERYTHING in my units, took everything they wanted and dumped the rest, including highly important personal papers,receipts and family photographs, including relatives who are deceased. I had 4 units, they left a few pieces of wicker and antique furniture in one unit that they had severely damaged. When I rented my units from the storage co. they took my money and never required that I read or sign ANYTHING rental agreement or otherwise. All my payments were cash. They had my mailing address/phone number and knew how to contact me. The owner was openly bitter towards me. It is clear from the condition of the items that remained and from the way in which my property was handled that the owners actions were malicious w/clear intent to inflict emotional distress/harm


Asked on 1/06/08, 10:20 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Personal Property Loss Claim?

OK, IF you can show they didn't follow the requirements of notice and sale, you may have the right to sue them for your damages. Even so, you'll have to prove your losses with an inventory and appraisal somehow. You'll spend considerable legal fees and costs in doing this, so consult with local counsel for an opinion on whether it makes sense to do this in Superior Court, or just take your chances in Small Claims Court.

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Answered on 1/07/08, 3:08 pm


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