How do Michigan landlords deal with left-behind property? 

Every month in Michigan, landlords face the problem of items left behind by former tenants. This is true whether the tenants move out or get evicted. Some items they leave behind include furniture, clothes, personal papers and other belongings. But Michigan law says landlords can’t just throw these items away. Even if you think the tenant no longer wants their stuff, you must follow specific rules to avoid legal trouble. 

Steps you must take by law 

Before you do anything with left-behind items, you need a clear plan. Here’s what Michigan law requires: 

• Take pictures of all items.
• Make a detailed list of everything left behind.
• Send a letter to the tenant’s last known address.
• Keep proof that you sent the notice.

What goes in the notice: 

• Complete list of all items found 
• Where you’re storing the items 
• When the tenant must pick up their stuff
• What you’ll do if they don’t claim the items 

What happens next 

The law says you must store these items safely for 30 days after you send the notice. You can charge the tenant for storage costs, but you must tell them about these fees in your notice. 

If the tenant doesn’t claim their items after 30 days: 

• You can sell valuable items at a public sale.
• You must report sale money to Michigan’s treasury.
• You can throw away or donate items with no value.

Remember: Quick action without following these steps could land you in legal trouble. Take your time and follow each step carefully to stay within the law. If you need assistance with any legal issue as a landlord, talk to a lawyer. They can advise you on what needs to be done and what you can do about your concerns.