What is required for a Life Tenant to sign documents concerning the property?

A Life Tenant is someone who has the right to use and benefit from a property for the duration of their life. However, they do not hold full ownership of the property because their rights are limited by the interests of the Remainderman, who will receive the property upon the Life Tenant's death.

For a Life Tenant to sign documents concerning the property, specific powers must be bestowed upon them. This often comes from the original deed or will that created the life estate. These documents outline the legal authority the Life Tenant has regarding the property, such as the ability to sell, mortgage, or otherwise encumber the property. If these powers are not explicitly granted, the Life Tenant typically lacks the authority to make decisions that could affect the Remainderman's future interest in the property.

This understanding underscores the importance of looking at the legal documents that define the conditions of the life estate, as it communicates what the Life Tenant can and cannot do without the consent or signature of the Remainderman.