You charge the tenant rent until they give up possession of the unit, IE turn in the keys to you. The items are still the property of the tenant, until they turn the keys over to you. If the tenant leaves property in the unit after they turn in the keys, then they have 21 days to retrieve them. You are allowed to charge a "storage" fee, equal to what one days rent is. So if they leave it there for 10 days, you can charge them for 10 days rent before they can take the items. If the items are deemed to be valued at less than $250 (if I remember right, check the law) then you can dispose of the items without having to hold them the 21 days. Further, if the tenant moves out and did not return the unit in the same condition, less normal wear and tear, then you can take money out of the tenants deposit to do cleaning, repairs, etc. You must however, provide copies of all receipts to the tenant showing dollar amounts that were deducted from their deposit. This must be done by the landlord within 21 days of receiving possession of the unit, keys turned in from the tenant. If the tenant drags this on, serve them a three day to pay or quit, then after the three days expire, file for eviction (unlawful detainer) and get them out that way. Hope this helps you.
