Q: Do homeowners of an estate home have to pay for essential home repairs (roof) while home is occupied rent free?
A:
This depends on how the occupancy arrangements are defined. GENERALLY speaking the life tenant is responsible for the current expenses like utilities, taxes and insurance but PRINCIPAL improvements are not required. A new roof could be seen as increasing the value rather than merely maintaining it so it may fall to the remaindermen to pay.
Bring the relevant documents to a licsl real estate attorney ASAP to get a real opinion.
— this answer is offered for information only and is not legal advice nor does it create an attorney/client relationship.
I am licensed in Michigan only. Please seek local licensed help if you still have questions.
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