Q: In WA state, can someone retain personal property after a lien sale auction?
This is regarding items stored at a self storage facility via lien sale auction, and the bid that was accepted was received, but the items have not yet been picked up after the auction. Also, is the facility owner obligated to provide the renter with an inventory list? And is th owner obligated, or prohibited, from sharing the name and contact details for the winner of the auction whose bid was accepted?
A:
In Washington state, the laws regarding self-storage facility lien sales are governed by the Washington Self-Service Storage Facilities Act (RCW 19.150). Here are some key points:
1. Retaining personal property: Once a lien sale auction has been conducted and a winning bid has been accepted, the former tenant generally loses the right to reclaim their property, even if the winning bidder has not yet collected the items.
2. Inventory list: The self-storage facility owner is not legally obligated to provide the former tenant with an inventory list of the items sold. However, the facility owner must provide a notice of the lien sale to the tenant, which includes a statement that the stored property will be sold to satisfy the lien unless the amount owed is paid by a specified date.
3. Sharing winner's information: Washington state law does not explicitly prohibit or require the facility owner to share the name and contact details of the winning bidder with the former tenant. However, it is generally considered best practice for the facility owner to maintain the confidentiality of the winning bidder's information.
It is important to note that the self-storage facility owner must follow specific procedures and timelines when conducting a lien sale, including proper notification to the tenant and advertising the sale in a newspaper of general circulation. If the facility owner fails to adhere to these requirements, the lien sale may be considered invalid.
If you have specific concerns or questions about your situation, it is best to consult with a local attorney who specializes in self-storage facility laws and regulations.
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