Timeshare Death Guide: What Happens When an Owner Passes Away

If a loved one owned a timeshare and then died, the process can feel confusing. Most people assume the timeshare just vanishes or that the heirs are stuck with endless fees. The truth is a bit more straightforward: a timeshare is a piece of property, so it becomes part of the estate and follows the same rules as any other asset.

First, locate the timeshare contract. It should be in the deceased’s paperwork or stored digitally somewhere safe. The contract will show the ownership type (fixed week, floating week, or points) and any ongoing obligations like annual maintenance fees. Having the exact details on hand makes the next steps much easier.

How the Timeshare Moves Through the Estate

When the owner dies, the timeshare is listed on the probate paperwork just like a house or car. If there’s a valid will, the will names the beneficiary who will inherit the timeshare. If there’s no will, intestacy laws decide who gets it—usually the spouse, children, or parents.

Once the court approves the transfer, the new owner (the heir) must update the timeshare’s records. This usually means completing a transfer form, providing a death certificate, and paying a small administrative fee. Some resorts charge a transfer fee that can range from a few hundred to a thousand pounds, so it’s worth checking the contract for exact numbers.

What Heirs Should Do Right Away

1. Review the contract for exit options. Many timeshares allow owners to sell, rent, or even surrender the slot back to the resort. If the heir doesn’t want the timeshare, knowing the exit route can save money and hassle.

2. Check for outstanding fees. Maintenance fees often accrue even after the owner’s death. Contact the management company to get the current balance and set up a payment plan if needed.

3. Consider tax implications. In the UK, inheritance tax may apply if the estate’s total value exceeds the threshold. The timeshare’s market value counts toward that total, but the tax is usually settled before the transfer.

4. Seek professional advice. A solicitor experienced in property and probate can speed up the paperwork and ensure the heir isn’t caught off guard by hidden costs.

If the heir decides to keep the timeshare, they should familiarize themselves with the resort’s rules – booking windows, usage limits, and any upcoming renovations that might affect availability. Staying organized helps avoid missed deadlines and unexpected fees.

On the other hand, if the heir wants out, they have a few paths:

• Sell the timeshare. List it on reputable resale sites or work with a brokerage that specializes in timeshares.
• Rent it out. Short‑term rentals can cover maintenance fees while the property sits unused.
• Offer a surrender. Some resorts accept a surrender for a nominal fee, especially if the slot is hard to fill.

Each option has pros and cons, but the key is to act quickly. Delaying can lead to higher fees and a shrinking pool of interested buyers.

Finally, keep communication open with the timeshare company. Many managers are willing to work with heirs who explain their situation and ask for flexible payment plans or reduced fees. A polite, direct approach often yields better results than ignoring the notices.

In short, a timeshare doesn’t disappear when the owner dies—it becomes part of the estate and follows the same legal steps as any other asset. By locating the contract, updating ownership records, and deciding whether to keep, sell, or surrender the slot, heirs can handle the situation without unnecessary stress. A quick call to a solicitor and a prompt chat with the resort can make the whole process smoother and keep the family’s finances on track.