Found an issue on this page? Let us know and we will look into it as soon as possible.
What to do after tenant moved out leaving heavy furniture, clothes?
Anonymous6 views2 answers
Tenant moved out without notice, no forwarding address and still have keys to apt. Husband's phone is not in service. I sent text message to wife's cell phone in vain. Utility not transferred yet. I found out where they moved to which is about 1/1/2 hours away and is a small city. I am sure I can locate them because of his line of work. Shall I consider this an abandon case?
What legal procedure shall I go after? Can I move their personal belonging out for next potential tenants? I have wife's SS# and Driver License#. Your advice on this matter will be greatly appreciated. Judy
The only cautious advice to fully protect you, as landlord, is to suggest that you initate an eviction action, seeking service of process wherever possible, which case will memorialize all the "history" with the court, before actually having the premises fully vacated. If they tenants cannot be served with process, the court will issue an order for substitute service using a posting, after which, if they fail to appear in the court case, the court can issue an order for the court officer to move all the items left behind "to the curb"! That will assure that the tenants can't later seek a judgment for liabilty and damages against you.
Michigan laws strongly favor tenants. As a landlord your need to be exceedingly cautious. The best way to proceed is with an eviction. Unfortunately evictions are usually lengthy and expensive. However they do afford landlords the best protection. I suggest that you immediately obtain the booklet "Tenants and Landlords: A Practical Guide" so that you fully understand your rights and obligaions. It is available on line and at your local district court (the landlord/tenant court). It is great and it is free! Every landlord should have a copy.
