Self-Storage Auction Grey Area? Operators Discuss What to Do When a Delinquent Tenant Bids on Their Own Unit

Here’s a scenario to ponder: A self-storage tenant falls behind on rent and ends up in delinquent status. You proceed through the convoluted, time-consuming lien-sale process with the hope of recouping at least some of the lost revenue. Come auction day, the customer shows up to bid on their own unit, or asks a friend or family member to do so. If they win, they get their stuff back at a much lower price tag, after having put you through your paces and costing you additional time, money and effort. It hardly seems fair, but it’s a potential loophole late payers are exploiting, in person and online. Do you have the right to reject their bid or refuse to relinquish the goods? Members of the Self-Storage Talk online community are discussing this legal grey area after a member shared the fact that a tenant who owes her $400 might get it for $20. Read what members have to say and add your thoughts.