Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Connecticut
Multiple Owners-Three Family home
Three family home was transferred by quit-claim deed to three siblings all with equal interest. Two of the siblings live at the property (one on the first floor, one on the second and the third floor is rented to a third party). Only one of the siblings is maintaing the property (lawn care/snow removal/repairs) and paying the expenses (taxes, water, insurance, etc). What are the responsibilities of the siblings and can the sibling who is paying for the home be reimbursed? Does the sibling who is paying nothing and living at the property be forced to contribute?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Multiple Owners-Three Family home
Assuming there is no written contract or other written document which defines the siblings' responsibilities, I believe the sibling who is paying nothing may be forced to contribute.
It's called "unjust enrichment." That sibling is enjoying the benefit of the monies expended by the other sibling. Since this isn't "fair" the paying sibling can bring an action against the non-paying sibling for reimbursement and future payments.
On another note, if the paying sibling does not want to remain a part owner, he/she can bring a partition action dividing up the property. (either physically, if possible, or financially- by sale or buy-out).
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