Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Alabama

When does stored property become my property?

I am storing some racing tires for a former friend. I have had these in my possesion for close to a year now. I have given him 1 week to remove them from my property. If he does not remove them do they become mine to dispose of or sell as I see fit? How long does something have to be on my property before it becomes MY property? Thank you.


Asked on 9/13/00, 2:11 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Gregg Manes Gregg A. Manes, Esq.

Re: When does stored property become my property?

I would send the "owner " of the tires a certified letter stating that if he does not claim the tires within a certain reasonable time, you will consider the tires abandoned. It is importatnt to make sure that you have the signed green card from the mailing. Otherwise like Mr. Sommer stated, you open yourself up for potential liability.

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Answered on 10/24/00, 11:19 am
Rick Sommer Law Offices of Rick J. Sommer

Re: When does stored property become my property?

From your post, I read that your former friend entrusted the storage of these tires to you and you accepted that responsibility. Whether you did this for a fee or simply as a favor, I do not recommend that you claim the tires as your property (unless this was the agreement you had with your former friend from the beginning.) It would be prudent to keep the tires in a safe place. Selling them could expose you to a claim of conversion (theft) by your former friend. If your friend doesn't pick the tires up, you may need to seek counsel and pursue a legal remedy to relieve yourself from the responsibility.

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Answered on 10/19/00, 11:50 am


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