Updated self-storage lien laws will go into effect on July 1 in Connecticut, South Dakota, Vermont and Virginia, according to a June 20 newsletter distributed by the national Self Storage Association to its members.

In Connecticut, House Bill 5148 was signed by Gov. Ned Lamont on May 24. It permits the towing of motor vehicles, trailers and other vessels that belong to self-storage tenants who fail to pay rent. It would also allow operators to advertise and hold lien sales online, plus it eliminates the return-receipt requirement.

In South Dakota, House Bill 1289 was signed by Gov. Kristi Noem on March 24. The updated law allows self-storage operators to place value limits on stored belongings, send default notices via email and tow certain property. The measure also reduces the newspaper advertising provision and requires operators to update rental agreements with a tenant-disclosure clause divulging additional parties who have an ownership interest in items that will be stored.

In Vermont, House Bill 74 was signed by Gov. Phil Scott on June 2. The measure addresses procedures for sending lien-sale notices via email, placing value limits on tenant stored belongings, applying late fees, and advertising auctions in places other than the local newspaper. It also provides guidelines for the disposal of personal property and towing vehicles after delinquency reaches 51 days.

In Virginia, Senate Bill 199 was signed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin on May 27. It eliminates the requirement for self-storage operators to advertise a lien sale prior to conducting the auction.

Sources:
SSA Magazine Weekly 6/20/22, Lien Law Changes to Take Effect in Four States on July 1st
Connecticut General Assembly, HB 5148
South Dakota Legislature, House Bill 1289
Vermont Legislature, H 74
Virginia's Legislative Information System, Senate Bill 199