Usufruct is a legal right that grants an individual (the usufructuary) the temporary use and enjoyment of another person’s property, without transferring ownership. Under usufruct, the usufructuary has the right to derive benefits from the property, such as collecting rents, harvesting crops, or residing in a dwelling, while the ownership rights remain with the property owner (the naked owner). Usufruct can be created by agreement, will, or operation of law and typically lasts for a specified period or until a certain event occurs. It is commonly used in estate planning, where an individual grants a usufruct to a spouse, child, or other beneficiary, allowing them to use and benefit from property during their lifetime while preserving the property’s ultimate ownership for designated heirs or beneficiaries.
The right to enjoy the use and advantages of another’s property short of the destruction or waste of its substance.
The right to use property — or income from property — that is owned by another.
- The legal right to use and derive profit or benefit from property that belongs to another person, as long as the property is not damaged.
- To use and derive profit or benefit from property that belongs to another person.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.
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