Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Landlords · End of tenancy
Belongings left behind by a tenant
Noticebefore disposal
Storagereasonable costs
Saleaccount for proceeds
Recordsprotect yourself
In short: If a tenant leaves belongings behind, a landlord can't simply bin them. Under the Torts (Interference with Goods) Act 1977, you should give the former tenant written notice describing the items, where they are, and a reasonable deadline to collect them. After that, you may be able to sell or dispose of them, and you can usually recover reasonable storage and sale costs from any proceeds. Some tenancy agreements also set out a process. Rubbish and perishables can be dealt with more quickly. Fraser Bond handles check-outs and abandoned items for landlords we manage for.
A lawful process
1
Photograph everythingRecord the items and their condition.
2
Store safelyKeep them secure; you have a duty of care.
3
Serve noticeWrite to the tenant's last known address and email, listing the items and a collection deadline.
4
Allow timeGive a reasonable period, often around 14 to 28 days.
5
Sell or disposeIf uncollected, sell for a fair price or dispose of low-value items.
6
Account for proceedsDeduct reasonable costs and keep records of any balance owed to the tenant.
Storage and sale costs
Costs–
Balance due to tenant–
Keep receipts. A tenant may claim if items are disposed of without proper notice.
Before you dispose of anything
Landlords: let us handle check-out
- Professional check-out reports
- Abandoned items process
- Cleaning and clearance
- Fast re-letting
Frequently asked questions
Keep exploring
RENTING GUIDE
How to Rent an Apartment in London: What to Check FirstRENTING GUIDE
When Can a Landlord Keep Your Deposit? Your Rights in EnglandRENTING GUIDE
Weekly to Monthly Rent Conversion: The Right Way to Calculate
How to Rent an Apartment in London: What to Check FirstRENTING GUIDE
When Can a Landlord Keep Your Deposit? Your Rights in EnglandRENTING GUIDE
Weekly to Monthly Rent Conversion: The Right Way to Calculate
Browse every guide in The London Renter's Hub → · London area guides →
Handy tools
Stamp duty calculatorRental yield calculatorMove-in costsBTL deposit calculatorRefurb cost per m²
Register for new homes
Tell us your budget and area and hear about homes first.
Get startedTell us your budget and area and hear about homes first.
Can I throw away a tenant's belongings?
Not without following a fair notice process, except for obvious rubbish or perishables.
Can I charge for storage?
You can usually recover reasonable storage and sale costs from proceeds.
What if the tenant abandoned the property?
Make sure the tenancy has legally ended first. Get advice if unsure.
Want check-outs handled properly?
Our management service covers end-of-tenancy processes.
Speak to our teamProperty management
