California Abandoned Property Rules: What Happens When Property Is Left Behind?

What Counts as “Abandoned Property” in California?

“Abandoned property” in California generally means personal items left behind with no clear intent to return and claim them. This can include household goods, vehicles, cash, jewelry, or lost items. Real estate (land and buildings) is treated separately under complex “adverse possession” laws.

Landlords and Tenants: The Rental Property Process

California has some of the strictest and most detailed rules for dealing with tenants’ abandoned property (see California Civil Code §§ 1980–1991). Here’s how it works:

After a tenant moves out or is evicted and leaves personal property behind, the landlord must make a “reasonably clear” inventory and store the property safely.
The landlord must give written notice to the tenant (and, if known, to any other interested parties), describing the items and stating where and how to reclaim them. This notice must be personally delivered or sent by mail to the tenant’s last known address.
The tenant has at least 15 days (if notice is personally delivered) or 18 days (if mailed) to reclaim their property.
If the tenant doesn’t respond, the landlord can sell the property at a public auction if it is valued at $700 or more. For property worth less than $700, the landlord may keep, donate, or throw away the items.
Proceeds from the sale can be used to cover storage, auction, and unpaid rent costs. Any surplus must be sent to the tenant or, if they cannot be found, to the California State Controller’s Office as unclaimed property.

Tip for landlords: Take photos and make a detailed inventory to avoid disputes.
Tip for tenants: Don’t abandon valuables, and make sure your landlord has your current address if you move!

Storage Units: Lien Sales and Unclaimed Goods

If you fall behind on your storage unit payments, California’s “Self-Service Storage Facility Act” (Business & Professions Code § 21700 et seq.) applies:

The operator must give written notice of default and intent to sell your property, allowing at least 14 days to pay what’s owed and claim your belongings.
If you don’t respond, the facility can sell your property at a public auction to recover unpaid rent and costs.
Any extra money after fees must be sent to you, or if you can’t be found, to the State Controller’s Office as unclaimed property.

Vehicles: What Happens to Abandoned Cars?

Abandoned vehicles on public or private property can be reported to law enforcement or the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Here’s the usual process:

Authorities try to contact the last registered owner and give them a set period (usually 10–30 days) to claim the vehicle.
If not claimed, the vehicle can be towed and sold at a public auction. Proceeds after costs go to the owner or to the state as unclaimed property.

Lost and Found: Finders, Keepers?

California doesn’t follow a pure “finders, keepers” rule for valuable property:

If you find lost property (money, jewelry, etc.), you must make a reasonable effort to find the owner—usually by turning it in to the police or the business where you found it.
If the property is not claimed after 90 days (or up to 1 year for high-value items), it may become yours. The process usually involves paperwork and a waiting period.
Keeping valuable lost property without attempting to return it is considered theft.

Unclaimed Money and Safe Deposit Boxes

Unclaimed property in California also covers things like old bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance proceeds, and the contents of safe deposit boxes. After a set period (usually 3 years), businesses must turn over unclaimed property to the California State Controller’s Office. Anyone can search for and claim unclaimed money for free.

Can You Claim Abandoned Real Estate in California?

Claiming abandoned land or buildings is extremely difficult. California’s “adverse possession” laws require at least 5 years of open, continuous use, payment of property taxes, and a court process. Always consult a lawyer before attempting this.

Tips for Handling Abandoned Property in California

Landlords: Always follow notice, storage, and auction rules to avoid legal trouble.
Tenants: Update your contact information, and don’t leave valuables behind when you move.
Storage renters: Pay overdue bills quickly or communicate with the facility—auctions happen fast.
Vehicle owners: Respond promptly if your car is towed as “abandoned.”
Finders: Turn in valuables to police or property management; follow the process to claim them if unclaimed.

Helpful Resources

Final Thoughts: California’s Abandoned Property Laws—Detailed but Fair

California’s rules are meant to balance the rights of owners, finders, and property managers. The biggest risks? Not giving proper notice or failing to document everything. When in doubt, check the law or talk to a lawyer—handling abandoned property by the book will save you time, money, and trouble.