Death of Tenant:

ARSS

Not sure if this is appropriate but having trouble trying to find the correct way to change a name on an account when the tenant has passed away.  I have death certificate and other person is on her lease as Fiance' and Emergency contact.  I know they had items in unit for their joint business so not sure what to do.

YASS

In the past, I was able to change the name to another tenant but only if the new tenant could show they were the next of kin. Otherwise, auction. If the new tenant is on the lease as an access person they can certainly get in to retrieve belongings and leave it empty for a move out.

Casino

The way we handle this situation in WA State, is as follows. The executor of the estate must bring in a death certificate, and he/she can name someone to take over the unit. Of course...the new person must agree to take over and sign a new rental agreement.

ARSS

I will look into the estate issue.  I would feel better not worrying about an legal issues.  Thank you both for your comments.

craigbell

Differs from state to state. In California we must ( by law) overlock the unit immediately, upon notification of tenants death. We cannot open it to the heir until they provide a Death Certificate and a Power of Attorney. 

Amelina

Same here Death Certificate and a Power of Attorney is required.

DerekBrett

In Oregon it's death certificate and executor of the estate. However, we cannot not force someone to not move out. So if the next of kin knew the gate code and had a key to the unit, they could vacate without us knowing there was a death at all.