Property Ownership

Under Pennsylvania's Abandoned Property Law, when an owner of real property in Pennsylvania dies without known heirs and with no will, the property may eventually:

APass to the municipality where it is located
BEscheat (pass) to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania✓ Correct
CBe auctioned to the highest bidder by the county
DRemain in limbo until a court appoints a guardian

Explanation

Escheat is the reversion of property to the Commonwealth when an owner dies without heirs and without a will, or when property is abandoned. Pennsylvania's escheat laws provide that real property passing without valid claimants passes to the Commonwealth, which may then sell or use it.

Related Pennsylvania Property Ownership Questions

Practice More Pennsylvania Real Estate Questions

1,500+ questions covering all exam topics. Start free — no signup required.

Take the Free Pennsylvania Quiz →