Flow diagram · England
Tenant gone and belongings left behind
When you think a tenant has left — and what you can do with what's still there.
Answer each question to see where it leads. Tap any earlier step to change your answer.
LandlordWala · Tenant gone and belongings left behind · England
Tenant gone and belongings left behind
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Don't just change the locks
If the tenancy hasn't ended, re-entering can be unlawful eviction. Abandonment alone doesn't end it.
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1
Has the tenant clearly given the property back?
Yes — keys returned or written surrenderThe tenancy has ended by surrender. Inspect and record the condition.No / not sureTry every contact route and the guarantor. If you can't confirm, use the court route (possession claim). -
2
Belongings left behind
Under the Torts (Interference with Goods) Act 1977, give the former tenant written notice describing the goods, where they are, and a date to collect them.
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3
Wait a reasonable time
Keep the goods safe until the deadline. Only then sell or dispose of them, keeping records; any sale money above your costs belongs to the tenant.
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4
Deposit
Return or claim from the deposit through the scheme as normal.
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✓
If in doubt, get advice
A solicitor can tell you whether a surrender has happened.