Funeral service providers in Philadelphia must give a tangled title information sheet and a certified death certificate to the survivor of the deceased. Providers must do this within five days of receiving the certified copy of the death certificate from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This is required by Philadelphia Code Chapter 9–5800.

A tangled title occurs when someone lives in a house, but is unable to prove ownership because that person’s name does not appear on the deed. This handout is meant to prevent tangled titles from happening by making sure that the survivor puts the estate through probate and legally transfers the deceased’s home.

If you’re dealing with a tangled title, you should request help from the Title Clearance Unit at the Register of Wills. Residents can also apply for Tangled Title Fund grants to reduce title clearing costs.