When someone dies owning a property in Tenerife, their utility bills and local taxes don’t automatically stop. This guide explains what needs to be paid, who is responsible, and how to transfer everything into the heirs’ names once probate is complete.
You Must Keep the Property’s Basic Expenses Paid
Even before the inheritance is finalised, certain costs must continue to be paid to avoid debt or service interruption. These include:
- Electricity
- Water
- Community charges
- IBI (annual council tax)
- Basura (rubbish collection fees)
- Insurance (optional but recommended)
If payments stop, the property can fall into arrears, which later delays selling or transferring ownership.
Who Pays These Bills?
Technically, the estate is responsible until the inheritance deed is signed. In practice, heirs normally pay the bills to avoid problems, then settle any shared expenses among themselves later.
If the bank account is frozen
Spanish banks freeze accounts after death. Heirs may need to pay bills from their own funds until probate is complete. Once the inheritance is signed, the bank account is released.
Transferring Utilities Into the Heirs’ Names
After the inheritance deed is complete, utilities and local taxes must be updated. Each company will require:
- A copy of the inheritance deed
- Heir’s passport and NIE
- Bank account details for the new direct debit
Most changes can be done online, but some companies still request the paperwork by email or in person.
Keeping everything up to date avoids fines, debt, or complications when selling the property.
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