If you are a TSSA member, you have access to our exclusive "Ask the Experts" database, with answers available 24/7 through the Members-Only part of
txssa.org
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With more than 400 self-storage questions and answers from our team of industry experts, the database is searchable by both category and keyword.
Question:
It has come to my attention that a tenant is storing stolen goods. The rightful owner would like to enter the unit and take his property. He is willing to pay the back rent. Can I let him?
Answer:
No. Legally, only the tenant and people that the tenant has authorized to have access rights may enter the unit. The only exceptions are (1) the police, in the case of a search warrant or in hot pursuit, and (2) your entry into the unit in accordance with paragraph 18 of the TSSA lease. If you would like to, you could cooperate with the rightful owner by giving him all the contact information for the tenant who you suspect is the thief, and you could cooperate with law enforcement authorities by allowing them access if they present you with a search warrant. Since the unit is delinquent, you have the right to overlock it, and you could help the rightful owner by exercising the right to overlock the unit. Then you could proceed through the foreclosure process as quickly as legally possible, and the rightful owner can come bid on the property at the foreclosure sale.
