When a spouse passes away and the home is jointly owned, the surviving partner does not have to notify the Land Registry to change the property title, but it is highly recommended. According to solicitor Matthew Johnston from Nooney & Dowdall Solicitors in Mullingar, while ownership automatically transfers to the surviving spouse upon death, updating the Land Registry helps avoid future complications. To do this, the surviving owner must complete Form 47, which can be downloaded from the Tailte Éireann website, and submit it along with the deceased's death certificate. This update ensures clear ownership and simplifies future transactions, such as applying for home improvements. Additionally, it is advisable to review any existing wills to ensure they reflect current wishes, particularly if the original executor is no longer suitable. Overall, taking these steps can make estate management more straightforward for future generations.