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Fire in illegal unit raises safety concerns

By Robert Griswold, Thursday, August 3, 2006.

Question: Please let me know what tenant-landlord regulations apply to renting an illegal rental unit that is part of the two-family home we lease. We live in a rental unit on the lower floor, while a single mother and her child live in the upper flat. The 37-year-old unemployed son of our landlords lived in this bootleg rental unit off the garage rent-free, even using the utilities connected to our flat. Last month, he accidentally set the place on fire and the police discovered drug paraphernalia in the son's room while the firemen were here.  more...

Avoid title problems after co-owner's death

By Robert Bruss, Thursday, August 3, 2006.

DEAR BOB: The title to our home is in a living trust with my husband and myself as trustees. My husband passed away a few months ago. Should I change the title and record a new deed in my name alone? --Rhoda C.

DEAR RHODA: If you and your late husband had a joint living trust, that document became irrevocable after his passing.  more...