Personal Property Abandoment at my Computer Repair Shop

[technett]

New York

A customer dropped off two laptops to be repaired at my business 9/6/08. One competed 9/12/08, the other still waiting for license key from customer (first contact for key 10/7/08 -- other work done first). I left multiple phone messages and each time I spoke to the client, they said they'd be in to pickup/bring key/pay. It has been 2.5 months since original call for pickup and a month since i last spoke to someone. What recourse do I have? When are the computers considered abandoned? (At drop off, every client signs legal waiver form that includes abandonment clause after 30 days. Will this hold up?)

[CraigFL]

In my repair business I always send a registered letter with a return receipt to notify the person they have seven days to pick it up.

[InsaneJane]

Don't depend on your abondonment clause to protect you. Sending the registered letter is the safest.
If you do plan to dispose of the computers, then I recommend backing up all the data for the customer in case they do go after you.
Treat your customers like you would want to be treated....