Had a similar situation happen to me with a roommate (didn't die, but just packed up and left) and bailed on the rent and utilties. I had all their contact information, but they of course didn't respond. It got to the point where it just wasn't worth the stress and hassle to try and track the person down, force them to pay off their bills etc and we just bit the bullet for am month. With regards to the OP, I would analyze the situation on a case by case basis. If you knew the renter really well, give the proper time and respect to the family, but still attempt to get your money. If they were bad tenants, then its important to still give some proper time for the family to handle the person's affairs. Tricky situation, but treating people with class and respect is never a bad way to go.