Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Found Property in Rental Unit

As an independent contractor, I find property left in a vacant rental unit. The previous

tenant is contacted to describe whether or not they left any belongings and can

they be described-no response. It is unknown whether it belongs to that tenant or previous tenant. The

owner is aware the property was found and has been through the property prior to finding it and cannot provide information as to the previous tenants whereabouts nor are they making claim to the property-they are not aware specifically what it is that was found. Noone else has made claim to the property. Does

the property belong to the finder or the owner?


Asked on 12/02/99, 9:37 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lyle Johnson Bedi and Johnson Attorneys at Law

Re: Found Property in Rental Unit

California law provides that if the reasonable value of the proerty is $100 or less the landlord may discard the property. If the value is greater than $100 the landlord must store the property and notify the tenant. If the tenant does not pick up the property with 30 days the landlord may sell it at public auction. From the proceeds of the auction the landlord may deduct the reasonable expenses for storage and the auction. If you take the property with the knowledge of the landlord he will be liable for damages, along with you.

Read more
Answered on 12/05/99, 8:10 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Real Estate and Real Property questions and answers in California