What happens in the case of a bereavement

1. A member of the family will need to advise the GHA that the tenant has died. This will start the four weeks’ written notice (known as termination period.)
2. The GHA will need a copy of the death certificate or notification in writing from the ‘Greffe Register of Death’ to end the tenancy.
3. The family member will need to advise the GHA as to who the next of kin are and who will be responsible for the deceased person’s affairs.
4. It is the responsibility of the next of kin to clear the property of all the furniture and personal belongings.
5. If the next of kin is unable to clear the property, then the GHA will need to ask the next of kin to sign a mandate allowing the GHA to dispose of any items. If there are funds in the estate, then the costs will be claimed back. It may be possible to have an auctioneer to take the items and sell them. Any money gained from the sale of the items will be offset against the cost of clearing the property.

If someone is living in the same property and wishes to remain and “succeed the tenancy”, then they will need to complete a social housing application form. We recommend talking to us as soon as possible so we can advise.

The form must be returned to Housing at Edward T. Wheadon House within 14 days of the tenant’s death.

If the tenant has left no will with a named executor or grant of probate, the relatives, family or next of kin will need to sign an indemnity form. This provides written confirmation that any funds and/or belongings can be released to the named persons.

The family needs to confirm if there is a probate grant. If there is no grant, then that means there is very little money in the estate or in savings.  The GHA will write out to the next of kin requesting arrears payment. 

The GHA will need a copy of the probate grant or the deceased tenant’s will. The GHA needs the executor’s details and ID to make sure that they are paying the overpaid money to the correct person and that they are bona fide.