Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New York

Lifetime Use of home

My mother received lifetime use of father's home. She is trying to get us siblings to pay for improvements on the home, because we were left the house in our names. This is in New York State. I am trying to find out is there a law that states ''lifetime use, means that she must maintain the home''.


Asked on 4/01/08, 8:07 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Debra Palazzo Law Offices of Debra Palazzo, LLC

Re: Lifetime Use of home

Lifetime use does mean she is responsible for maintenance, repairs,taxes, expenses, etc.

However, if you can afford to make the improvements it will benefit you in the end, won't it?

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Answered on 4/02/08, 8:48 am
Michael Markowitz Michael A. Markowitz, PC

Re: Lifetime Use of home

"It is well established that in the absence of a plain direction in the will to the contrary, a life tenant of real property who is in possession is under a duty to pay all carrying charges, including taxes, and to keep the premises in a good state of repair." IN RE STEIN'S WILL

91 N.Y.S.2d 158 (1949).

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Answered on 4/02/08, 8:53 am


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