How can property ownership rights change due to the death of a tenant?

When a tenant dies, property ownership rights can change based on the type of tenancy that was established. In a joint tenancy, the principle of "survivorship" applies. This means that when one joint tenant passes away, their share of the property automatically transfers to the remaining tenants. This transfer occurs without the need for probate and ensures that the ownership remains intact among the surviving tenants.

This principle is a defining feature of joint tenancy, in which all tenants have equal rights to the property, and it emphasizes the unity of possession, interest, and time. Because of this mechanism, the death of one tenant directly impacts the ownership structure, leading to an adjustment where the remaining tenants acquire the deceased tenant's interest in the property.

In contrast, other forms of tenancy or agreements may not provide for such automatic transfer of rights upon death, which is why understanding the specifics of joint tenancy is crucial in property law.