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Abandoned Property
What should I do with my ex-boyfriend's abandoned car?

What should I do with my ex-boyfriend's abandoned car?

Q: What is considered an abandoned vehicle in SC?

In South Carolina, a vehicle is considered abandoned if it has been left unattended on public or private property for more than 48 hours without the owner's consent. This includes vehicles that are inoperable or have been left without a valid license plate. Local law enforcement can help with the removal of such vehicles.

Q: How long can a vehicle sit on your property before it becomes yours?

The time a vehicle can sit on your property before you can claim ownership varies by state. In many places, if a vehicle is abandoned, you may need to wait a specific period, often 30 days or more, after notifying local authorities. Always check your state laws for the exact time frame and requirements.

Q: How long can a car sit on someone else's property?

A car can typically sit on someone else's property without permission for a short period, often defined as 24 to 48 hours, depending on local laws. After this time, it may be considered abandoned, and the property owner can take action to have it removed. Always check local regulations for specific time limits.

Full question:

What to do with a car left by my ex-boyfriend in my property almost a year back? Told him several times to remove the car. No response from him. He is not known for the last 6 months too. Can we consider the car as abandoned? How can we remove it?

Category: Abandoned Property
Subcategory: Vehicles
Date: 04/07/2025
State: North Carolina

Answer:

Yes, you can consider the car abandoned. If a vehicle is left on private property without the owner's consent for more than two hours, it is deemed abandoned. You should submit a written request to your city authorities regarding the car left by your ex-boyfriend. Most cities have ordinances against abandoning vehicles on private property, and they can enforce these by removing and disposing of abandoned vehicles.

Once you report the car, the city may move it to a storage area. However, you will need to indemnify the city against any loss or liability incurred during the removal, storage, or sale of the car. The city will also notify your ex-boyfriend about the removal.

For more details, refer to the relevant North Carolina law: § 160A-303. Removal and disposal of junked and abandoned motor vehicles.

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.

FAQs

How long does a car have to sit before it is considered abandoned in the UK?

In the UK, a vehicle is generally considered abandoned if it has been left in the same place without being moved for a significant period, typically around 14 days. Local authorities can take action if the vehicle is untaxed, has no valid MOT, or appears to be in a state of disrepair. It's advisable to report such vehicles to your local council for guidance on their removal.

Can I sell a car that has been left on my property?

You may not sell a car left on your property without the owner's permission. If the vehicle is deemed abandoned, you should follow local laws regarding its removal. In many cases, you must report it to local authorities, who can handle the disposal or sale of the vehicle legally. Always check your local regulations before taking action.

How can I take ownership of an abandoned vehicle?

To take ownership of an abandoned vehicle, you typically need to report it to your local authorities. They will assess whether the vehicle is truly abandoned and may require you to wait a certain period for the owner to reclaim it. After that, they can guide you through the process of obtaining a title or ownership documentation if the vehicle is declared abandoned.