Gonzales v. Personal Storage, Inc.

In this case we consider the question of whether a self-storage facility which converted approximately $60,000 of a tenant’s personal property is liable for the severe emotional distress the tenant suffered when the tenant learned about the conversion. As we explain below, we find the self-storage facility is liable for the tenant’s emotional distress.

I

Factual Background

Plaintiff and respondent Lucy R. Gonzales is a native of the Philippines and was married for many years to an officer in the United States Navy. As a result of her husband’s travels during the course of his naval career, Gonzales had collected a number of rare and valuable pieces of furniture and personal belongings. Gonzales was also an active member of the local Filipino community and in 1968 she founded the Maria Clara de Pilipinas Sorority. Under her direction the sorority works with high school girls in the Filipino community preparing them for the annual spring debutante ball. Gonzales also was the owner and operator of an office supply business in National City.

In 1989 Gonzales’s marriage was dissolved and she was required to sell her family home and move into her daughter’s home. Because of…