Property OwnershipIntermediateDelaware Exam

What is 'estovers' in Delaware historical property law?

AA colonial-era Delaware property tax

BThe right of a life tenant or tenant to cut timber from the land for fuel, repairs, or fencingCorrect

CAn old Delaware law governing water rights along the Christina River

DSimply the narrow right of a single cotenant to receive rental income only from a shared jointly owned property

Why The right of a life tenant or tenant to cut timber from the land for fuel, repairs, or fencing Is Correct

Answer B: The right of a life tenant or tenant to cut timber from the land for fuel, repairs, or fencing

Estovers is an ancient property right allowing a tenant (life tenant, leaseholder) to cut sufficient wood from the property for fuel, building repairs, and fencing. It prevents the tenant from going elsewhere for necessities but does not permit waste — the tenant cannot clear-cut the timber for commercial sale.

Exam Tip: Property Ownership

Property ownership questions test the bundle of rights and different forms of ownership. Know the differences between joint tenancy, tenancy in common, and community property, including the right of survivorship.