Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

First and foremost, it is important to establish whether the occupant has an existing tenancy with regard to your Real Property. Has she unequivocally stated she has no intention of returning? If not, it may be necessary for you to first post and serve a "Notice of Belief of Abandonment."

Once you have lawfully obtained possession of your Real Property, you will need to take inventory of the abandoned property and either email or mail the Tenant (to her last known address) a "Notice of Right to Reclaim Abandoned Property."

The tenant has 18 days to contact you to reclaim her property. If you determine that the value of the property left behind is less than $700 and the tenant does not contact you within 18 days of sending the notice, you are free to keep or dispose of the abandoned property.

If, on the other hand, the value of the property is $700 or more, there are specific obligations and guidelines for the Landlord to sell the property at a public auction. Please If this applies, please post a question with regard to this specific topic.