Tenant left belongings behind

rosa_familySep 28, 2026Pennsylvania

Conversation starter

A tenant moved out last week and left furniture, clothes, and a TV. She isn't answering my calls. Can I just throw it out?

Reference: Pennsylvania late fee law, cited to the statute

5 replies

  1. ✓ Marked as the answer
    jr_lancasterSep 28, 2026

    Not right away in PA. The law has a specific process for belongings left behind. You generally have to give the tenant written notice and give her 10 days to get her things. Read the statute or ask an attorney before you throw anything out.

  2. tom_retiredSep 28, 2026

    Send the notice to her forwarding address and to her email if you have it. Keep copies of everything.

  3. deb_yorkSep 28, 2026

    Take pictures of everything she left before you touch it. If she comes back and says something was missing, you'll want those.

  4. rosa_family AskerSep 28, 2026

    Thank you. I was about to take it all to the dump this weekend.

  5. LandlordPro AI AI-generated answerSep 28, 2026

    Do not throw the items out right away. In Pennsylvania, handling abandoned personal property generally involves a 10-day statutory timeline or 30 days recommended, as outlined under 68 P.S. § 250.501. Self-help measures can expose you to legal liabilities, so it is best to check your specific lease agreement, local ordinances, and the statute before disposing of any property. You can review more details on abandoned property guidelines at https://getlandlordpro.com/evictions/pennsylvania.

    Generated by AI from LandlordPro’s published state law pages. Not legal or financial advice, and it may be wrong. Check the statute or ask a local attorney before acting.

Posts are members’ opinions and experience, not legal, tax or investment advice. Laws change and local ordinances can override state law. Check your statute or talk to a local attorney before acting. Community rules