Full question:
A family member and I shared a self storage unit. After my relative did not pay the rent for three months, I took over the unit in my name, paid all back rent, and changed the locks. How do I collect my money and get his belongings out?
- Category: Abandoned Property
- Subcategory: Abandoned Property Self Storage
- Date:
- State: New Jersey
Answer:
The process for collecting your money and dealing with your relative's belongings depends on whether the self-storage facility is owed money by your relative. If they are, the facility may sell the property after providing notice to your relative. If not, you should check local abandoned property laws, as these can vary by area. Typically, these laws require notice to the owner to claim their property by a certain date.
Since you had an agreement with your relative to share the storage costs, this creates a contract that you can enforce in court for breach of contract. In such a case, you may seek damages to recover the money you spent. Sometimes, a letter indicating your intent to pursue a claim can prompt payment. Depending on the amount owed, you might also consider filing a claim in small claims court.
In New Jersey, for example, if a storage unit is overdue by more than thirty days, the owner can notify the occupant and follow specific procedures to satisfy their lien, including sending a notice that details the claim and demands payment within a specified time (N.J. Stat. § 2A:44-191). If the payment isn’t made, the property can be sold after proper notice and advertisement.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.