Home Rights

What is the name of your state? Wisconsin

My elderly mother owns her own home. She has a "friend" living with her. The friend chips in and pays towards utility bills, food, etc. Since the house is paid for there is no monthly mortgage payment. He has been living there for over two years now. She tells us that we just need to give him time to find other living arrangements, but we are worried he would try to stay in the house and possibly claim the house as his. My question is if my mother passes away before her friend, does the friend have any legal rights to the house?

Q: My question is if my mother passes away before her friend, does the friend have any legal rights to the house?

A: Not unless ma gives him legal rights to the house.

If you are this concerned, talk to your mother about making a will. Lawyers are good at those! According to your post though, assuming they don't marry, then no, he won't have any claim to the house.