A recent article highlights the timing of the end of a tenancy when a tenant dies - Woman’s estate ordered to pay three weeks’ rent after her death
As a landlord, you hope that tenants don't die. But it does happen. In Qld, generally the tenancy ends two weeks after notice of the death (Qld RTA - death of a sole tenant).
I view the date of death as the end of the tenancy. I see no point requesting written notice from the deceased tenant's relatives at a time when they should be focused on other things. While formalities need to be addressed, a landlord should make things as easy as possible for the deceased's relatives.
There are ways of trimming costs from property ownership without trying to squeeze the last cent out of a dead tenant. Not every landlord would agree with that.
You can make the property ready for the next tenant in a way which makes the process as simple and helpful as possible for the deceased tenant's relatives. An agent who genuinely shows empathy in these situations is also helpful.
A simple rule of thumb is how would I like to be treated in similar circumstances.
PELEN
January 2020
© PELEN 2020
The content of this publication is intended to provide a general overview on matters which may be of interest. It is not intended to be comprehensive. It does not constitute advice in relation to particular circumstances nor does it constitute the provision of legal services, legal advice or financial product advice.