IHTM16135 - Rights of residence: a single beneficiary

The most straightforward situation is when the settlor (or testator) owns the entire property and gives it to trustees for a single beneficiary on trust for life (or any shorter period)

This should be the simplest category, but you should bear in mind that in all cases involving the use and enjoyment of a residence, the exact wording of the disposition or trust is crucial.

The trust period can be shorter than ‘life’ - the property is settled property from the beginning.

There is no requirement that the property should produce income or should previously have produced income.

Normal temporary absences from the property do not constitute ‘ceasing to reside’.