Inherited 50% of house

Hi,

My mother-in-law sadly passed away and left her half of the house to my wife.  (I think this was an attempt to help with inheritance tax). Her father is still alive and well, and living in the house.  

My questions is, what does my wife have to do (if anything) to inform the authorities (in this case Land Registry) that she now has an interest in this property?  Does she need to complete any forms?

Many thanks in advance!
 

Hi Andrew - I'm sorry to read of your loss.
I'm afraid it's not our role to advise on what has to or needs to happen here as we register the outcome of such discussions/deliberations. And as such our online guidance then explains how to apply to update the register depending on what you decide. 
So it's really legal/financial advice you need here as to what's the 'best' option which maybe do nothing, update the register re the death alone, or transfer the property into joint names again. 
In my experience much will depend on how the arrangement (trust) was set up re wills, trust deed etc and whether that then explained what happens next if one of them died. That may help understand what can, needs or has to be done?
Much will also depend on what Father and wife both want to now do and of course how their own health might impact in the future and how best to deal with their beneficial shares etc 
So plenty to consider and once done and decided the linked guidance clicks in re what we then need 
I'm sorry I can't be more helpful 

HM Land Registry public guidance - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) - have your say to help us to improve the support we provide