California Abandoned property

What can a landlord do with property a tenant leaves behind in California?

For property left after the tenant moves out, the landlord must send written notice describing it and giving a claim deadline at least 15 days after personal delivery, or 18 days if mailed (§ 1983; model form § 1984). Unclaimed property must be sold at a public sale after published notice, with the net proceeds paid to the county. If it is reasonably believed to be worth less than $700, the landlord may keep or dispose of it (§ 1988). Abandonment of the unit itself requires a separate notice of belief of abandonment (§ 1951.3).

Verified Source: Cal. Civ. Code §§ 1983, 1984, 1988, 1951.3 · last checked 2026-10-15