Assembly Bill 1139 amends current laws regarding the disposition of personal property left behind by tenants. Under existing law, landlords can presume that any personal property left behind is abandoned unless there is a written agreement stating otherwise. The bill changes this by stipulating that landlords cannot make such a presumption if there is any indication from the tenant that the property is not abandoned. In such cases, landlords must adhere to the 2009 statutes, which require them to either store the property or provide the tenant with 30 days' notice before disposing of it.

Additionally, the bill introduces a provision that prohibits landlords from charging tenants more than a reasonable rate for the removal, disposal, sale, or storage of their personal property after they vacate the premises. This reasonable rate will be determined by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection through rule-making authority. The bill aims to protect tenants' rights regarding their personal belongings and ensure fair practices in property management.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 704.05(5)(a)1, 704.05