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.
In most circumstances (particularly for voids) belongings will be stored by the approved storage contractor. However, where the parking and lettings team or caretakers need to store belongings, it may be possible to use space such as a secure shed or garage if it is recorded who the belongings belong to.
After inspecting the void and recording belongings, an order can be placed with the storage contractor to collect the items for storage. Remaining items for disposal (i.e. rubbish, perishable items) can be cleared in the normal way.
A quote isn’t needed as the cost for the storage can be calculated from the schedule of rates here (aka pricing schedule).
If a special clearance is needed first due to hazards such as needles being present, an order can be placed through Contact Camden.
If the property is severely infested it is likely that storage will not be possible. It is best to make a full note on TRIM before arranging clearance.
According to the contract, storage should take place three working days after placing the order to store (24 hours in emergencies).
How the property is dealt with once stored depends upon whether the address of the former tenant is known.