Because the average landlord doesn’t expect it to happen, abandonment procedures are sometimes not well known to them. Arkansas’ procedures for dealing with an abandoned property are short and sweet, though still important to follow. When inspecting the premises for abandonment, the following situations are good evidence: the return of keys, the substantial removal of the tenant’s personal property, a notice by the tenant, the extended absence of the tenant while rent remains unpaid, or any other evidence that would reasonably suggest that the tenant has permanently surrendered possession of the premises.

One of the smartest next steps is to immediately make reasonable efforts to rent the property at market rate.

One of the smartest next steps is to immediately make reasonable efforts to rent the property at market rate. The existing agreement term is terminated on the date a new tenancy has begun, if the date of termination has not yet passed. If the landlord fails to use reasonable efforts to rent the premises at market rate, then the existing agreement term is terminated upon the date of the landlord’s notice of abandonment.

Any and all property placed on the premises is subject to a lien in favor of the landlord for the payment of all sums agreed to be paid by the tenant. Upon the voluntary or involuntary termination of the agreement, all property left behind by the tenant shall be considered abandoned and may be disposed of by the landlord as he or she sees fit and relieves all liability for doing so.