Urgent help Needed

Corum

Hi there, I've been a long time lurker and avid follower of the site but I come to you for sombre reasons.

This morning, my housemate (with whom I share a joint tenancy) took his own life. After dealing with the police and trying desperately to deal with it on a personal level (I've lost a friend, companion and someone who really didn't seem like the type to do this at all). I've been struck by the reality of having to pick up the pieces of whats left.

Does anyone know what happens with bills/rent etc? I'm starting to worry that now I will not only have lost a friend, but my home - as I can't afford to pay his share of the rent also, not to mention his half of the bills. I would appreciate any help and advice whatsoever, no matter how small

Thankyou so much

1echidna

Corum wrote: »

Hi there, I've been a long time lurker and avid follower of the site but I come to you for sombre reasons.

This morning, my housemate (with whom I share a joint tenancy) took his own life. After dealing with the police and trying desperately to deal with it on a personal level (I've lost a friend, companion and someone who really didn't seem like the type to do this at all). I've been struck by the reality of having to pick up the pieces of whats left.

Does anyone know what happens with bills/rent etc? I'm starting to worry that now I will not only have lost a friend, but my home - as I can't afford to pay his share of the rent also, not to mention his half of the bills. I would appreciate any help and advice whatsoever, no matter how small

Thankyou so much

I am sorry to hear of your loss. Does he have a next of kin? If not I believe the Official Solicitors Office ( http://www.officialsolicitor.gov.uk/os/offsol.htm ) will be able to advise on at least some of your concerns.

clutton_2

i am so sorry you have had to experience such a shocking event in your life. it will not be easy to deal with. do you have a chum you can talk to about this emotional shock of all this - you will need someone else to share this with, and to weep with, it is a very sad time for you ?

i think, in practical terms, you should write to your landlord (or agent) immediately and tell him what has happened. There are specifically laid down laws in relation to what has happend to you - but as i have not experienced a tenant's death, i do not immediately know how i can advise you.

But, with regard to bills, if your name is on the bill and your late flat-mates name is on the bill, i assume that you will be now fully responsible for the bill.

your council tax bill can be reduced by 25% as you can now claim a Single Persons Reduction

do you have contact with your late flat-mates family ? they will now have to take on the Probate (sorting out his affaiars) and if he has any funds these an be accessed - but it will take a while (as long as he made a will)

this is a lot to take on alone - may i suggest that you talk to his family and see if they can help out

bw

Jowo_2

Friends and family are great for giving support at such a distressing time but this organisation can also help.

http://www.uk-sobs.org.uk/help_and_support.htm

I don't have great knowledge of the legal implications but expect that options may include the victim's estate picking up any costs.

A sympathetic and understanding landlord may allow a request from you to surrender the contract if this is a decision that you prefer or perhaps time to find a new co-tenant.

You will find Shelter will give you expert advice about your options and rights. They have a free helpline number.

Discuss your options, worries and preferences with Shelter and the landlord or agent.

Try to separate out the housing and affordability issues from the grief you are suffering because these are short-term issues that could unnecessarily overwhelm you because of the general upset you are now experiencing.

You may find a few quick telephone calls about your housing concerns will ease your practical worries and free you to attend to the shock and loss of your friend.