Personal Property Rights?

After 14 years of living together, in Tennessee, my mother and her boyfriend split up. He moved to another state. She has notified him to come and get the rest of his belongings, but to no avail. Are there personal property laws in place in the state of Tennessee? Are there any steps she should take before selling or getting rid of the belongings, such as public notices, etc.? He has been gone almost 9 months. Any information you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Rhonda