DiscoverGabfocus Self Storage PodcastDealing with Dead Tenants
Dealing with Dead Tenants

Dealing with Dead Tenants

Update: 2025-06-05
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Description

What do you do when a tenant passes away while renting a storage unit? This was the opening question AI came up with... Hopefully, no one has ever passed away in your office while renting a unit, but dealing with an existing tenant who has died happens more often than you think.

This is one of the most uncomfortable but critical situations self storage operators face—and getting it wrong can come with serious legal consequences.

In this episode, we break down the must-know legal and practical steps operators need to take when a tenant dies. They cover everything from probate considerations to next-of-kin contact, and how to avoid common missteps that could land your business in hot water.

Key topics include:

  • Legal obligations when a tenant dies

  • Understanding your lien rights in these situations

  • Why having a secondary contact in your lease matters

  • When to hold off on selling the contents of a unit

  • Practical advice on handling the emotional side with surviving family

  • Steps you should take before this ever becomes an issue

If you've never dealt with this situation before, you probably will. Death is a part of life, and hopefully your business can be a part of the solution rather than adding to the stress.

Hosts: Josh Huff & Melissa Huff

Produced by Lighthouse Storage Solutions

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Dealing with Dead Tenants

Dealing with Dead Tenants

Josh Huff, Melissa Huff