When someone finds a lost item, many countries have legal frameworks that define the rights and obligations of both the finder and the original owner. A key part of these frameworks is whether the finder can request a reward (often called a finder’s fee or finder’s reward). While details vary across jurisdictions, there are some common principles worldwide.
General Principles
Right to a Reward
In most countries, the law recognizes that the finder may be entitled to a reasonable reward if they return the lost item.The reward is typically not automatic but conditional upon the finder fulfilling certain duties (such as reporting the find or handing it in to authorities).
What counts as a “reasonable reward” depends on local law or, in some cases, custom.
Obligations of the Finder
Report the item to local authorities (e.g., police, municipality, or lost property office).
Safeguard the item until it is handed over.
Not profit from the item in any other way.
Ownership Rules
If the true owner does not reclaim the item within a certain timeframe, the finder may sometimes gain legal ownership.
The duration before this happens (often 3–12 months) varies significantly by country.
Regional Examples
Europe
Netherlands: The Dutch Civil Code grants the finder a right to a reasonable reward, often interpreted in practice as ~10% of the item’s value. Ownership may pass to the finder after one year if unclaimed.
Germany: German Civil Code (§971 BGB) grants the finder a claim for a finder’s reward — usually 5% of the value (or 3% if over €500). Costs of safekeeping are also reimbursable.
United Kingdom: There is no statutory finder’s fee. Instead, it depends on goodwill or agreements. Police or transport authorities often handle lost property without promising rewards.
North America
United States: Laws vary by state. Some states (e.g., New York) allow claim of a finder’s fee if reported properly, while others only provide reimbursement of expenses. Cultural norms sometimes encourage a voluntary reward.
Canada: Provinces regulate lost property. In many cases, finders may gain ownership if the item is unclaimed, but a statutory reward is not always guaranteed.
Asia-Pacific
Japan: The Civil Code grants the finder a right to a reward (usually between 5–20% of the value). The finder may also gain ownership if the item is unclaimed after 3 months.
Australia: There is no fixed statutory reward, but common law recognizes the finder’s right to claim expenses and sometimes a reasonable reward.
Other Regions
Latin America: Practices vary. Some countries have Civil Code provisions inspired by European law, often granting a proportional finder’s reward (e.g., Brazil and Mexico).
Middle East & Africa: In some jurisdictions, local customs or religious principles guide the return of lost property, and formal finder’s fees may not exist. Instead, voluntary rewards or reimbursements are common.
Key Takeaways
A finder’s reward is commonly recognized in many jurisdictions but not universal.
Where it exists, the reward is usually a percentage of the item’s value or a reasonable compensation for the effort and care of the finder.
The right to claim a reward usually depends on the finder fulfilling legal obligations (reporting, safeguarding, cooperating with authorities).
In countries without explicit laws, rewards are voluntary and based on goodwill.
Disclaimer
This article provides a general overview and does not constitute legal advice. Laws differ per country and may change over time. For specific cases, please consult local regulations or legal professionals.