Washing machine removed – Crime or Not?
My son has a couple of rental properties. The tenant of one of them has finally quit following expiry of the Section 21 Notice. He is about £1,000 behind with the rent. The property was left in a disgusting state with litter everywhere and a child’s scrawlings on some walls. The flat needs to be completely redecorated.
On top of this, he has removed a £700 Bosch washing machine, without consent. My son reported this to the police, but they feel that it is not their job to act as a bailiff and seize goods. They suggested that he withhold the bond guaranteed by the council, but that won’t even cover the unpaid rent..
My question is whether or not a crime has been committed, i.e. theft of goods, and if so, should the police be expected to follow this up with the tenant.?
Malcolm
Comments
Have Your Say
Every day, landlords who want to influence policy and share real-world experience add their voice here. Your perspective helps keep the debate balanced.
Not a member yet? Join In Seconds
Login with
Member Since February 2014 - Comments: 35
8:55 AM, 6th December 2014, About 11 years ago
Apart from the obvious! Theft! May I suggest you do not install £700 washing machines in any rental properties, you can instead install washing machine seconds for between £130-£200 in perfect working order, which may have some cosmetics defects! Does it matter? Then if they are stolen, deduct the cost from the deposit or bond, problem solved!
Member Since July 2013 - Comments: 357
2:26 PM, 6th December 2014, About 11 years ago
Hi
Theft to permanently deny the rightful owner of there property. Unfortunately the police just wont do anything unless they are forced to.
I wrote on this forum earlier this year explaining it all and the lack of action by the police. I have been told the case has gone to the CPS I fully intend to put in an official complaint to the police authority.
The individual took my possessions / property in Apr 14 witnessed by neighbours across the street to another property. Then claimed to fake a break in when I contacted her to ask why my items had been removed.
The police were charging her with faking a break in and wasting police time. They would not prosecute for the theft of items I insisted and still waiting to hear end result still have not had my items return.