Law Of Possession

[brainiac]

Just over 12 years ago I agreed to store a motorbike in my garage as a favour for someone I've since had a serious falling-out with. At the time he said it was 'for about 6 weeks', but he's made no attempt to retrieve it, and the only time I've spoken to him in all that time he said 'oh yes I think I've found a buyer'. Nothing happened.

Has it now effectively become mine? Would I be within my rights to sell it? I really don't want to see this person again or contact him.

[dannyk13]

He is still the owner of the motor bike, so no, you could be charged with theft if you treat it as your property.

[bobbinwales]

Have you told him you cant hold it any longer, say you've no room , so he;ll after collect it or you'll have to leave it outside

[webbo3]

Tell him he has to collect it or you'll charge him a pound a day storage.

[davebro]

One way or another I think you will have to contact him - is there a 3rd party could act as go-between?

[jackthehat]

Possession is *not* 9/10ths of the law.
You need to contact him once, and you need to be certain that he receives your communication, and tell him that if he has not collected his property (him or his agent) by a date (usually 28days from the date of your communication) you will dispose of his property.
You cannot sell it as 'ownership' has never passed to you but you don't need to have someone else's property cluttering up your garage.

[THECORBYLOON]

This link gives advice to landlords when goods have been left behind by former tenants.

https://letlink.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=269

[brainiac]

Yes, have spoken a few times to his ex-girlfriend, but nothings happens. Just really hacked off at being taken advantage of - it would have cost him a small fortune to have stored it for all that time!

[davebro]

As above - if you know his address send a registered/signed-for letter giving him 28 days to collect or forfeit it. (Is it worth much?)

[Tuvok]

if you know where he lives why not drop it off.

Put the keys through the letterbox.

Don't leave it on the road as it might be SORNd