When a rental unit is vacated and personal property is left behind, tenants and landlords in Newfoundland and Labrador must follow clear steps to protect rights and avoid misunderstandings. This guide explains how to tell if property is abandoned, what timelines and notices apply, how landlords should document and store items, and what tenants can do to reclaim possessions or seek remedies from the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. Read practical actions you can take, forms to file, and how to keep records so disputes are easier to resolve. If you are preparing to move or have left items behind, these plain-language steps help protect your interests as a tenant or renter in the province.
When is property considered abandoned?
Property is usually considered abandoned when a tenant has vacated the unit and there is reason to believe they do not intend to retrieve items. Factors include loss of contact, unpaid rent, or the tenant providing forwarding information or a new address. Landlords should avoid assuming abandonment without trying to contact the tenant and documenting efforts to reach them.
What landlords must do and timelines
Landlords should follow province rules and any timelines set out by the Residential Tenancies legislation and the Tribunal. Typical landlord duties include attempting to contact the tenant, providing written notice of intent to dispose, keeping an inventory, and storing items securely for a required period before disposal or sale. Always note dates and methods used to contact the tenant.
- Within a reasonable time after discovering items, try contacting the tenant at known phone numbers, email, or forwarding address and record each attempt.
- Serve a written notice stating your intent to hold or dispose of property and the deadline for collection; keep a copy of the notice and proof of delivery.
- Prepare an inventory with photos and descriptions of left property and keep receipts for any storage or moving costs.
- If the tenant returns, arrange a time for collection and require proof of identity before releasing items.
- If permitted, landlords may recover reasonable storage and disposal costs from the tenant; document all charges and receipts.
Documenting, storage and disposal best practices
Good documentation reduces disputes. Store items safely (locked room or secure storage), photograph everything, and keep dated logs. If items are perishable, dangerous, or pose a health risk, follow safety rules and notify the tenant promptly. If you believe contents have significant value, consider professional appraisal before disposal.
Forms, Tribunal and legal remedies
If a dispute arises or you need an order about abandoned property, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal[1] or the provincial body that handles tenancy disputes. The governing legislation (Residential Tenancies Act)[2] explains timelines and landlord/tenant obligations. Common forms include an application to the Tribunal and specific notice forms to tenants; check the official provincial forms page for exact names and how to file.[3]
For tenants worried about a withheld security deposit after items were left behind, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out for steps on recovery and documentation. If you are moving and want tips to avoid problems, consult Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.
If you are looking for a new place, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare listings and reduce the chance of abandoned-items disputes when you move.
FAQ
- Can a landlord immediately throw away my belongings?
- No. Landlords must follow notice and storage rules and give tenants time to collect items; disposing immediately can lead to liability and a Tribunal claim.
- How long will a landlord store my items?
- Storage timelines vary by province and case; landlords must usually provide notice and keep items for a specified period before disposing, as set out in provincial legislation and Tribunal decisions.
- What if I can’t collect items within the deadline?
- Contact the landlord immediately, provide reasons and a plan to collect; keep records of communications and consider applying to the Tribunal if you cannot reach agreement.
How-To
- Confirm abandonment by documenting the vacancy, attempts to contact the tenant, and any forwarding information.
- Serve a written notice to the tenant explaining how long you will store items and how they can reclaim them; keep proof of delivery.
- Create an inventory with photos and condition notes, and store the items securely while tracking storage costs.
- If the tenant does not respond by the deadline, follow provincial rules for disposal or sale; keep records of any transactions or disposal steps.
- If there is a dispute about abandonment or compensation, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and bring your documentation.
Help and Support / Resources
- Government of Newfoundland and Labrador main site
- Residential Tenancies information (provincial)
- Residential Tenancies Act (Newfoundland and Labrador)
