The property is involved in an estate or inheritance
Estate and title questions can change who has authority to act. This site does not decide heirship, executorship, or who may occupy the property.
The important question
Who holds authority to act for the property or the estate, and on what claimed basis is the current occupant there?
Facts that may matter
Whether a probate case is open; who holds title; who is occupying; any will, deed, or court papers; communications among heirs; and a timeline of occupancy relative to the death.
What not to assume
A family connection does not automatically create or eliminate occupancy rights. A tenant's or owner's death does not automatically answer who may occupy the property or discard belongings.
What to document
Death certificate, probate case information if any, deeds, wills, and communications among heirs — without confronting an occupant.
What not to do
Do not sign side agreements or use self-help to remove an occupant without independent professional advice. Do not assume a particular next step from this page.
Where to go next
Georgia sources (Georgia-specific; other states vary) · All states · Related real case · Protect my property
When professional help may be appropriate
Estate occupancy problems often require a probate or real-estate attorney in the relevant jurisdiction. Facts after a death are frequently state-specific. This site does not determine heirship or possession.
Related: Tenant Dies · I Bought a Property With Someone Already Living There · Someone says they have permission to occupy the property