What to do about items taken by an heir of a tenant with a life estate?
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What to do about items taken by an heir of a tenant with a life estate?
I own a home that I bought from my sister and gave her a lifetime estate. She passed away leaving 2 grandchildren. Her grandson came in to get her belongings. Does he have the right to tear a air conditioner out of the wall? When I bought the house it had a washer, dryer, stove and refrigerator. Does he have the right to take it? She didn’t have a Will.
Asked on February 18, 2012 under Real Estate Law, Florida
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
I am so sorry for your loss and for the problems that have ensued. The grandchildren have the right to her personal belongings and nothing else. When you purchased the home you purchased it along with all the fixtures (the AC unit is a fixture as are lights that are wirded in) except for those specifically excluded in the sales contract. Change the locks and get help here. Good luck.
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