Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in California

How long do I have to keep my ex-roommates belongings after they moved out for not paying their share of the rent? My nephew and his wife "rented" a room from me. I say "rented" because they never paid a dime despite our agreement, and they were never on the official rental agreement. When rent last came due they refused to pay their part. They were so outraged I would make them pay as agreed they packed up as much of their things as they could and moved out that day. However, they left most of their things behind.

Two days later, my electricity was shut off for non-payment. They told me a week prior that they had paid the electricity. They obviously lied. I told them they would need to pay the electricity bill before even thinking about returning for their belongings. They showed up with the police. I told them to go away. They did.

My question is: How long must I keep their stuff? Also, what course of action do you recommend I take regarding these troublesome renters?


Asked on 6/12/10, 12:13 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
George Shers Law Offices of Georges H. Shers

Since it is clear that they have left, to avoid litigation, give them 18 days written notice that if they do not pick up their things at a reasonable time at a reasonable location, you will put items fo any value up for sale and use any proceeds to pay the rent owing to you and the other expenses you incurred. Run an ad on Craigslist and any other free site, sell what you can, donate and junk th rest unless they come to pick it up. You can set the location and time. you can also insist that they take everything, not just 1-2 items of value. But remember it is best to get rid of them even though you suffer another economic loss.

As to them themselves, I recommend you find a picture of them, blow it up, attach it to a pillow or other soft object, and beat the pillow up. It will get rid of some of your anger and frustration, which the legal system will not result in doing.

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Answered on 6/12/10, 9:26 pm


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