Forum Topic

Can the council claim rent arrears from the deceased?

A friend who died on 30th June has acquired rent arrears of £1507.07 up to 27th Sept.  The council have sent a letter to the next of kin/executor demanding payment.The council never gave a date to return the keys.The next of kin is not listed at the deceased address.Are the council chancing their luck or are they within their rights?

Ewan Howard ● 3989d2 Comments

Not disagreeing with Michael but rent would continue to be charged to the estate until the executors gave vacant possession back to the landlord. No requirement on the landlord to give notice for keys etc. Might seem tough on the executors especially as all pensions/benefits etc end with the death but equally tough on the landlord given lost rental income. Fact the landlord is a Local Authority has no effect on the outcome.

Iain Muir ● 3988d

This web page should answer your questionhttps://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/dealing-with-the-debts-of-someone-who-has-diedThe amount owing might suggest that your friend had accumulated substantial rent arrears prior to their death. The general principle appears to be( without reading the above ) that after funeral expenses have been paid, and any outstanding income tax paid, all other debts are chargeable against any remaining assets in their estate.michael adams....

Michael Adams ● 3989d