When a tenant moves out, whether it’s at the end of a lease, after an eviction, or due to abandonment, landlords in Minnesota often find themselves asking the same question:
What am I legally supposed to do with the stuff they left behind?

If handled it wrong, you could end up liable for damages. But if you follow Minnesota law (specifically Statute § 504B.271), you can protect yourself and your property. Here’s what you need to know.

Minnesota Statute § 504B.271 – Know the Basics

Under Minnesota law, landlords must follow a specific process when dealing with a former tenant’s personal property left behind:

• You can’t just throw it out. You’re required to remove, store, and care for the tenant’s belongings in a “reasonably secure” location.
• There’s a 28-day waiting period. You must wait 28 days from when you reasonably determine the unit has been abandoned—or receive official notice from the tenant—before you can dispose of or sell the items.
• You must give written notice before selling anything. If you intend to sell the property to recover costs, you must notify the tenant by mail (first-class and certified) and post a notice on the premises at least 14 days before the sale.
• Profit can use the proceeds to cover storage and removal costs, but anything left over must be held for the tenant if they make a written request.

Failing to comply can open you up to penalties—up totwice the actual damages or $1,000 (whichever is greater), plus attorney fees.

Document Everything as Value Can Be Hard to Define

One tricky part of this process is assessing the value of what’s left behind. What looks like junk to you might be meaningful (or expensive) to someone else. Since “value” is subjective, most landlords go by fair market value.

To protect yourself and log items thoroughly:

1. Take a full inventory of all personal property.
2. Photograph or video everything before moving or storing it.
3. Record thecondition and any identifying features.

This kind of documentation creates a clear paper trail and helps defend your decisions if questions or disputes come up later.

Make Compliance Easier with Professional Support

Let’s be honest, dealing with tenant belongings can be time-consuming and legally risky. Between logistics, documentation, and legal deadlines, it’s easy to make a costly mistake.

Aprofessional property management company can handle the process for you:

• Ensure full compliance with state law
• Manage notifications and storage timelines
• Accurately document and assess property
• Reduce the risk of tenant claims or legal trouble with proper communication

Whether you own a single multifamily property or manage a small portfolio, having expert help gives you peace of mind—and keeps your operations on solid legal footing.

Need Help Handling Tenant Belongings the Right Way?

Tenant belongings shouldn’t become a legal headache. By knowing the rules under Minnesota Statute § 504B.271, documenting thoroughly, and following the proper timelines, you can stay compliant and avoid unnecessary risk.

At 1st Select, we help Minnesota property owners protect their investments and stay in full legal compliance. From move-outs and abandoned property to full-service management, we’re here to make your life easier.

📞612-524-1000  to schedule a free consultation.
📧 Or email us atinfo@1stselect.net