What to Do With Mail for Previous Residents?

By: ROS Team

Have you ever opened your mailbox to find a mysterious piece of mail addressed to someone you don’t recognize? It happens to many of us – receiving mail from previous tenants. While it might seem like a minor inconvenience, figuring out what to do with mail for previous residents is important. Not only is discarding it a federal offense, but it could also contain important documents the previous resident needs.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the best course of action for handling mail from previous tenants, ensuring you stay on the right side of the law, and helping out your fellow residents.

What Not to Do with Mail from Previous Tenants?

While the urge to simply toss out unidentified mail might be strong, there are a few key things to avoid when dealing with mail from previous tenants.

Firstly, throwing it away or destroying it is a big no-no. Tampering with mail is a federal offense in many countries, including the United States, and can lead to hefty fines or even jail time. This applies to all types of mail, from flyers to important documents.

Secondly, don’t even be tempted to peek inside. Privacy laws are in place to protect the recipient’s information, and opening someone else’s mail is a violation of those laws.

Finally, avoid holding onto the mail for long periods. While you don’t necessarily need to become a personal storage unit for the previous tenant, letting it pile up can become a cluttered mess.

What to Do With Mail for Previous Residents?

1. Return it to Sender:

This is the simplest and most common approach. Write “Not at This Address” on the envelope and slip it back into your outgoing mailbox. The postal service will then attempt to deliver it to the sender’s address. This will notify them that the recipient no longer lives there and may prompt them to update their records.

2. Forward it to the Tenant’s New Address (if you know it):

If you happen to know the previous tenant’s new address, you can be a good neighbor and forward the mail to them. Simply write the new address on the envelope and add “Forwarded” above the original address. This option requires a bit more effort on your part, but it ensures the recipient gets their mail.

3. Put Up a Sign:

While not a foolproof solution, placing a note near your mailbox that says “Previous Resident No Longer Lives Here” can help alert your mail carrier. This might nudge them to be more vigilant about checking addresses before delivery.

4. Reach Out to Postal Services:

If you’re continually getting mail for the previous resident, contacting your local post office can be helpful. Explain the situation and inquire about any additional steps you can take to stop the deliveries. They may be able to add a notation to the address or advise you on other options.

How to Stop Mail From Previous Owner?

While dealing with existing mail for a previous owner is important, there’s an even better solution – preventing it from arriving in the first place! Here’s how to be proactive:

Encourage the Previous Owner to Change Their Address:

Before they move out: This is the golden opportunity. During the move-out process, politely remind the previous owner to update their mailing address. Mention the Change of Address (COA) form available at their local post office. Filling this out ensures their mail gets forwarded to their new location.

After they move out (if forgotten): If they forget to complete the COA form, reach out and politely remind them. Offer to help them find the form online or provide the contact information for their local post office.

Understand Your Limits:

Never change the address yourself: It’s important to understand that changing someone’s address without their permission is a federal offense. The Change of Address form requires the recipient, their guardian, or an authorized agent to complete it. Trying to do it on their behalf could lead to fines or even jail time.

Can I Throw Away Mail from Previous Tenants?

No, you are generally not allowed to throw away mail from previous tenants. It is against the law to intentionally discard or destroy mail that is not addressed to you.

Are You Legally Bound to Return Mail That Isn’t Yours?

Generally, you are not legally required to return mail addressed to someone else. However, this can vary depending on the specific laws of your country, state, or local area. Additionally, your actions surrounding the mail can also have legal implications.

Can I Open and Check Mail Belonging to a Previous Resident?

No, it’s against the law. Opening or examining mail not intended for you is a federal violation. If you receive mail meant for someone else, the proper course is to clearly label it “Return to Sender” or reach out to the postal service for guidance on appropriate handling.

What If My Former Resident Has Passed Away?

When a former resident passes away, dealing with their mail requires a thoughtful approach. Notify the appointed executor or closest relative about the circumstance. Mark the correspondence as “Deceased” or “Return to Sender” before sending it back through postal channels.

Mail From Previous Tenant: Takeaway

Receiving mail for a previous resident can be a minor inconvenience, but by following the steps outlined above, you can handle the situation effectively and help ensure the rightful recipient gets their mail. Remember, a little effort on your part can go a long way, and you might even prevent some frustration for the previous resident.