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Removal of former tenants' belongings

Removal of former tenants' belongings

As a local authority we have specific legal duties when we find belongings, whether in a flat, a shed, or on communal areas.  This is different to duties for private landlords or to housing associations.  The guidance here relates to when we find belongings in a residential council home but the same legal advice applies for all council owned property.

If the belongings are claimed by the owner within the month before the notice period ends, or within six months if no notice could be served, the owner may be asked to pay the cost of clearance and storage. This can be waived depending upon individual circumstances.  When we charge, the charges could include the storage charges plus an administration charge of the cost to Camden of taking the inventory, organising clearance and storage, and sending notices and letters.

  • The payment should be made to Camden before collection of belongings using the standard letter on essentials.

  • The contractors require 2 or 3 days’ notice of someone coming to collect their belongings (although may be able to do less if urgent)     

Legally we should not be seen to be making a profit from this transaction.

 

Last updated: 28 April 2023