tenant or owner death: what to do in practice

Author : Nicolas BENOIT | Published On : 23 Oct 2025

Managing a property after a death requires both legal clarity and careful communication between heirs and landlords.

death of a tenant living alone

If the tenant lived alone, the lease automatically ends on the date of death. The heirs must notify the landlord quickly and return the keys as soon as possible. They remain responsible for rent and charges until the property is vacated unless they renounce the inheritance. A compensation fee may be applied if the dwelling remains occupied after the lease ends.

death of a tenant with heirs

When the deceased tenant lived with a spouse, civil partner, or long-term partner, the lease is automatically transferred to the surviving occupant. This right also extends to relatives who lived in the property for at least one year before the death. To secure this transfer, proof of residence and an official notification to the landlord are required. In social housing, income thresholds may limit eligibility for the lease transfer.

death of the property owner

The death of the owner does not end the lease. Heirs automatically take over the responsibilities of the former landlord, including collecting rent, maintaining the property, and honoring the existing rental contract. If no heir is identified, rent payments are sent to the notary or the Estates Department until the succession is closed.

unpaid rent and liabilities

The tenant’s death does not erase rental debts. Heirs who accept the inheritance must settle any outstanding rent and expenses. Those who refuse the inheritance are freed from this obligation. When a guarantor exists, the guarantee generally remains valid until lease termination, unless otherwise stated in the contract.

furnished and social housing

In furnished rentals, tenants’ families have only one month to vacate the property, compared with three months for unfurnished housing. In social housing, the lease usually ends unless the surviving spouse or dependent children request continuation. Each case is reviewed by the local housing authority.

estate management in Massy

In Massy and surrounding areas, heirs can quickly assess property value using the free property valuation tool offered by Nicolas Immobilier. This online or in-person service supports decisions regarding sale, lease transfer, or continued rental.

In 2025, average property prices reach around €4,500 per square meter in Massy, slightly more in Palaiseau and comparable in Chilly-Mazarin. Such figures highlight how strategic real estate decisions can influence inheritance outcomes.

advice from Nicolas Immobilier in Massy, Palaiseau, and Chilly-Mazarin

Sensitivity and expertise are vital when dealing with a tenant’s or owner’s death. With over 1,400 satisfied clients, Nicolas Immobilier provides trusted assistance combining local market knowledge, responsiveness, and empathy.

For valuations, property sales, or succession advice, visit Buy property in Massy Palaiseau Chilly-Mazarin or About us.
Client reviews are available at Customer testimonials.

Nicolas Benoit, director of Nicolas Immobilier in Massy, Palaiseau, and Chilly-Mazarin, is recognized for his professionalism and deep understanding of local market dynamics. He has already helped more than 1,400 clients through his transparent and personalized service.

Excerpt:
Handling a tenant’s or owner’s death requires empathy and legal understanding. Nicolas Immobilier assists families through each stage, from succession to sale.