The usual clutter or rubbish is often left behind, by new data from Direct Line shows that they often see some very unusual items too, such as the ashes of a loved one, a pet snake and 50 tubs of ice cream in the freezer.
With only 6 in 10 contracts actually having a clause in their tenancy agreements regarding disposal of belongings left behind, it’s common that landlords have to dispose of items themselves before new residents can move in.
Most common items left behind
The first item on the list isn’t that unusual, rubbish is left behind by many tenants and whilst annoying for landlords it is easily solvable unless left in excessive amount.
It is said by Direct Line that 56% leave rubbish and 52% leaving general junk or clutter.
Clothes, childrens’ toys, furniture, food and electrical items are all on the list too. With more than 28% of landlords having to deal with all off these issues.
Lesser common items left behind
Beyond the usual bits of rubbish, landlords over the years and in recent times have found some very unexpected items when checking over houses after tenants depart.
These are the items reported to Direct Line by landlords:
- A full aquarium with live fish
- A stash of unopened mail from multiple identities
- A toilet, not attached to the wall
- A vial described as containing ‘bubonic plague’
- Discarded ashes from a ‘loved’ one
- A vintage jukebox
- Ancient coins
- Five fridges
- 50 tubs of ice cream in the freezer
- A glass slipper
- Exotic pets like snakes or tarantulas
Financial losses and issues for landlords
Whilst disposing of a few items doesn’t usually cause much hassle, an excessive amount of rubbish or items left that need to be rid of can cost landlords. Especially if a Skip has to be hired to remove it all.
According to Direct Line, “Over half of landlords (53%) find themselves disposing of items personally often with a financial cost. On average, landlords are left £258 out of pocket due to the need to store or dispose of abandoned items, with some losses reaching as high as £5,000. Over half (53%) admit to being financially impacted in this way.”
Other issues caused by items left behind
Abandoned belongings can lead to delays in welcoming new tenants as landlords may have to contact previous tenants about the mess or if any items of significance are left behind. Some landlords (30%) have had to store left items while arrangements are made for collection or disposal.
Then comes the issue of what to do if an ex-tenant seeks their belongings after they have been disposed of.
Avoiding this challenge
Despite these common challenges, Direct Line reports that only 63% of landlords have a clause in their tenancy agreement relating to the disposal of left belongings. On top of this, only “46% of landlords are aware they must make efforts to contact the tenant to arrange collection or get confirmation that these can be disposed of.”
