Purchased a product, returned it, but company never picked it up. How long do I have to wait for ownership?

Question

I bought 1600 sq ft of hardwood flooring for a new house. Product was delivered and was a different wood than I had looked at an thought I was purchasing, so I told the carpet store to come pick it up and return my money. Finally after several weeks got my money back, but they never picked up the flooring. How long until it legally changes ownership. I've not written a letter asking for pick-up, only called and called. It's been 3+ weeks so far.

Answer 1

To protect yourself before taking ownership - since you know you really don't own it - I'd send a certified letter/return receipt requested or use the tracking option offered by the USPS, OR, send an e-mail, print it out, and file it away for safe keeping. In your letter or e-mail, mention your numerous telephone calls and ask them to give you a response within a reasonable time period (like ten days) as to when you can expect removal of this flooring from your property.

If you have no response within the time given (make certain it is reasonable though...not like a day or two), then you should be pretty safe in assuming Christmas came early. After all...they're using your facilities for free storage, and that's not legal. You might also throw that into the letter/e-mail.

Answer 2

Send them a certified letter so you have proof you tried to contact them, let them know that if the product is not picked up in 30 days, it belongs to you and you will dispose of it as you see fit. After 30 days, it is yours free and clear, and you have proof that you tried to resolve the issue should you be called into court.

Answer 3

I would send them a certified letter stating the amount of time that they have to come pick up the items and after which time you will dispose of the material and not be responsible for it any longer.