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Real Property LawLife EstatesBCMEDIUM

A life tenant in a life estate has which of the following obligations regarding the property?

Correct Answer

C) To pay all property taxes and maintain the property in reasonable condition

A life tenant has the obligation to pay property taxes, maintain the property in reasonable repair, and avoid waste that would diminish the property's value for the remainderman. The life tenant enjoys the use and income from the property but must preserve it for the future interest holder.

Answer Options
A
To obtain consent from the remainderman for all repairs and improvements
B
To provide the remainderman with annual audited financial statements
C
To pay all property taxes and maintain the property in reasonable condition
D
To purchase life insurance with the remainderman as beneficiary

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Option C correctly identifies the core obligations of a life tenant under Canadian property law. Life tenants must pay property taxes to prevent liens and maintain the property in reasonable condition to avoid waste. These obligations ensure the property retains its value for the remainderman while allowing the life tenant to enjoy current use. The duty to maintain and pay taxes is well-established in common law and prevents deterioration that would harm the future interest holder's rights.

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Key Terms

life estatelife tenantremaindermanproperty taxesmaintenance obligations
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