If I had a roomate who suddenly decided to move but left their belongings here, can I legally hold those belongings until they pay their rent/utilities?
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If I had a roomate who suddenly decided to move but left their belongings here, can I legally hold those belongings until they pay their rent/utilities?
She’s been saying sthat he will come get it but never comes. She owes me $185 for utilites and rent, plus I’ve stored her belongings.
Asked on November 6, 2012 under Bankruptcy Law, Arkansas
Answers:
FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Under the laws of all states in this country a landlord or roommate cannot hold a person's belongings hostage for unpaid rent or utilities. To do so could very well justify the person whose property is being held to file a lawsuit against the person holding the property.
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