Can previous owner take furniture?

[emilee1847]

Hello,

My family moved into a new home after completing the purchase last July. When we moved in, we discovered that the previous owner had left behind a piano and a large sofa.

Despite being irritated that he had not cleared the property, we decided not to make a fuss. We decorated to match with the sofa and our son began learning to play on the piano.

Now, 7 months after moving in, the previous owner has texted me out of the blue to say he'd like to arrange to come and collect his piano and sofa.

Obviously, we're quite upset about it and my son is gutted to be losing his piano. My question is-- is there anything we can do about this? The sale made no mention of the sofa or piano. Are we legally obligated to return them?

[starsky3567]

I would Text back saying I donated it to charity when you moved in with the other unwanted things in the house.

I had a builder leave some ladders and scaffold boards after a home extension build, I donated the boards and ladders to someone else after the builder repeatedly failed to attend and collect the items. 3 years later he called and asked if he could come and get them, I told they were gone, as he never collected them. Never heard from him again.

[des8]

Be aware that if you tell him you disposed of the items he may sue you for their value.

As you became an involuntary bailee when he left the items behind the Torts (Interference with Goods) Act 1977 comes into play.
Here's an article which discusses the act https://www.lawteacher.net/lecture-n...with-goods.php

[Captain Haddock]

What a nerve.

Tell him 'yes;, but that you'll charge him storage fee.