Have you recently found yourself left with an abandoned vending machine at your property? Maybe you're a business owner who inherited an old vending machine that was left behind by the previous tenant or your previous vending company went MIA (Missing In Action). Whatever the case may be, it's important to know what to do with an abandoned vending machine to avoid any legal or environmental issues.

In this article, we'll discuss the proper procedures for disposing of an abandoned vending machine in a way that is compliant with Ohio law and safe for the environment.

Difficulty Moving

Removing an abandoned vending machine can be difficult for several reasons:

1. Lack of Information: In some cases, the owner of the vending machine may not be immediately identifiable. This can make it difficult to determine who is responsible for the machine and who should be contacted to remove it.

2. Physical Obstacles: Vending machines are often large and heavy, which can make them difficult to move. In some cases, the machine may be located in a hard-to-reach area, such as a basement or attic, which can make removal even more challenging.

3. Environmental Concerns: Vending machines often contain hazardous materials, such as refrigerant or other chemicals, that can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly. This can make it difficult to remove the machine without causing harm to the surrounding area.

4. Legal Requirements: Depending on the jurisdiction, there may be legal requirements for how abandoned vending machines must be removed and disposed of. These requirements can add additional complexity to the process of removing an abandoned vending machine.

Legal Aspects

In Ohio, the proper procedure for handling an abandoned vending machine will depend on the specific circumstances surrounding the situation.

If the vending machine is located on private property and is abandoned, the owner of the business is typically responsible for removing the machine. The owner can either dispose of the machine themselves or hire junk removal service. If you’re near the Greater Cincinnati area, call Right Now Vending to remove the vending machine for you.

If the vending machine is suspected to contain hazardous materials or chemicals (Drink/Soda vending machine or Combo vending machine), it is important to contact a qualified professional to handle the removal in accordance with environmental regulations.

It's important to note that abandoning personal property is generally considered a violation of the law and can result in fines or other legal consequences. Therefore, if you are the owner of a vending machine that you no longer wish to keep, it is best to dispose of it properly rather than abandon it in a public or private location.

Proper Disposal of an Abandoned Vending Machine

1. Identify the Owner

The first step in disposing of an abandoned vending machine is to identify the owner.

2. Notify the Owner

If you are the business or property owner and have determined that the vending machine is abandoned, you must notify the owner of the machine by certified mail, with return receipt requested. The notice should state that the machine has been abandoned and must be removed within 30 days.

3. Remove the Vending Machine

If the owner of the vending machine does not respond within 30 days or cannot be located, you may remove the vending machine from the premises and dispose of it as you see fit. However, if the owner claims the machine within 30 days and pays any outstanding fees or charges owed to you, you must return the machine to the owner.

4. Proper Disposal

When disposing of an abandoned vending machine, it's important to do so in a way that is safe for the environment. If the machine contains hazardous materials or chemicals, contact a qualified professional to handle the removal in accordance with environmental regulations. Additionally, some parts of the machine, such as the compressor or refrigerant, may need to be properly disposed of to avoid environmental harm.

5. Take Photographs

It's important to note that before removing the vending machine, the business owner should take photographs or videos of the machine and document the condition of the machine in case the owner of the vending machine challenges the removal or disposal of the machine.

Overall, removing an abandoned vending machine can be a challenging task that requires careful planning and attention to detail. It's important to work with professionals who have experience in safely and legally removing vending machines to ensure that the process is carried out properly.

What Should I Do With An Abandoned Vending Machine?

In summary, disposing of an abandoned vending machine involves identifying the owner, notifying them of the abandonment, and properly disposing of the machine. If you're a business owner, be sure to document the condition of the machine before removal and contact a professional for hazardous material disposal. By following these steps, you can avoid legal and environmental issues and ensure that the abandoned vending machine is disposed of safely and properly.

If you're in need of abandoned vending machine removal services, don't hesitate to contact us at Right Now Vending at 513-580-8399. Our team is ready to help you with any questions you may have and to schedule a service appointment at your convenience. Let us help you reclaim your space and ensure the safety of your business premises today!