Heirs’ Property

Heirs’ property is created when land is passed down through generations and owned by many descendants with an undivided interest in the land. Without a clear title, property becomes vulnerable to land loss. In North Carolina—and especially eastern North Carolina, heirs’ property is prevalent. According to the US Department of Agriculture, heirs’ property is most predominant among Black landowners, and low-income families in Appalachia are also significantly impacted.

On April 10, 2024, attorneys and community leaders gathered from around the state in Durham, NC for the NCDOJ’s Heirs Property Symposium. The goal was to inform lawyers and community leaders about heirs’ property in North Carolina and solutions to avoid the risks of land loss. Learn more here.

Further Resources

Are you an heir looking for legal help?

• The Land Loss Prevention Project and Legal Aid of North Carolina offer legal services to those who qualify. Learn more about their work by calling or applying online.

For tips on buying and renting property in North Carolina, find NCDOJ’s tips here.

Are you an attorney looking to offer pro bono services to heirs?

• Legal Aid of NC runs the Heirs’ Property Pro Bono Project. Learn more and sign up to volunteer here.

Do you want to learn more about heirs’ property in your community?

• NC State University and NC A&T host Heirs’ Property Summits around the state periodically. Find a summit near you here.