Dutton, AL asked in Civil Litigation for Alabama

Q: HiWe had some people staying on our property in an RV who left 5 months ago, abandoning their RV. Can we remove it

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James L. Arrasmith
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A: In Alabama, dealing with abandoned property, such as an RV, on your land requires following specific legal procedures. First, it's important to determine if the RV is indeed legally considered abandoned. Generally, property left unattended for a prolonged period without any indication from the owner about returning for it can be considered abandoned.

However, before taking any action to remove the RV, you should check Alabama's laws regarding abandoned vehicles and property. These laws often require you to make reasonable efforts to contact the owner and give them a chance to reclaim their property. This might include sending a certified letter to their last known address.

If these efforts don't result in the owner reclaiming the RV, you may then have the right to remove it. But, it’s crucial to avoid self-help measures like selling or destroying the RV without legal authority. Local law enforcement or a legal advisor can provide guidance on the correct process to follow.

Remember, each situation can have unique legal implications, so it's advisable to seek legal advice to ensure that your actions comply with Alabama law. This will help protect you from potential legal issues that could arise from improperly handling the situation.

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