Yes. I’ve seen it, and I’m sure you have too. And it’s very unattractive for our neighbors to store unnecessary clutter in and around their property for years and years, but we do it all of the time. Whether it is small clutter or lots of junk, we all agree that it is never, ever a pretty sight. But why? There are a number of reasons why, and we can briefly explore a few of them.
1. No one lives there and no one cares. However, someone still owns the property. It may even be a bank-owned, abandoned property. It could also be an absentee, out-of-state, property owner who may not be aware of the condition of the property or has no one to help with it.
2. An elderly person or a disabled person who likely may be unable to physically do any outdoor de-cluttering without some type of assistance and support from others.
3. Hoarding. Someone has lived there for years and years and have allowed their possessions to collect without any plans to dispose of them. Sometimes, it is simply due to the sentimental value and attachment to their possessions. But what used to be sentimental value over the years has developed into a collection of today’s old junk now. For example, non-functioning old cars, old bicycles, rusty tools, old furniture, old toys, baby strollers, old books, boxes of old papers, outdated clothes, and the kitchen sink. After a few years, the task of junk disposal and cleaning out all of the stuff is too much for a person to tackle. So, it stays. It’s one example of urban decay.
4. Storage. A person may not be able to afford off-site storage expenses due to budget constraints. Or just not getting a portable storage shed for the backyard storage of old stuff.
To some degree, it may not necessarily be the property owners’ fault. Nonetheless, the problem continues to persist and doing nothing doesn’t help either. “But why should I clean it?”, you say. Theoretically, it’s on your property, and you can collect your old stuff if you chose to. You are absolutely right! But if you haven’t done anything with this stuff over the years by now, why continue keep it? And does being right make your property a suitable and acceptable living condition in terms of safety and comfort standards? Does it attract rats, black widow spiders, rodents and cause other environmental hazards? Does it attract home invasions, trespassers, and other criminal activity into your area?
Further, this model of homeownership can also negatively affect your property value. It can be very damaging to the essence and potential appreciation value in your home. Outside hoarding may cause and set a standard that future neighbors may follow in your neighborhood.
Dumpster rentals can cost around $400 per week. Try contacting your local City Hall to find out about assistance programs to relieve you of some of this expense by providing dumpster service at little to no cost to you. There also may be a non-profit organization in your neighborhood who may assist with professional home inspections for qualified, low income families. They may also refer you to other property disposal resources who can assist regardless of income. Contact your local church. They may be able to get volunteers to assist you with gathering and disposal of your old unwanted items. Further, check with your Salvation Army and find out if they offer any resources and volunteers for donations. Your donations are tax deductible. There are many community partners in your area who should be able to refer you to sponsored and non-sponsored support groups. Please help your neighbors, if you can. And if not, then feel free to give us a call at Help U Clean, and let us know. We may be able to help too. Thank you for being a good neighbor.