Resources for untangling titles

IF YOU LIVE in and maintain a house that belonged to a deceased relative but your name is not on the title to the property, you have what is known as a tangled title. This means that you are not the legal owner of the property and cannot sell or refinance it, take advantage of programs to reduce property taxes or assist with home repairs, or enter into an agreement to pay back taxes.

If you have a tangled title, here are some numbers to call to get legal help:

* Community Legal Services, 1424 Chestnut St.: 215-981-3700

* Community Legal Services/North Phila. 1410 W. Erie Ave.: 215-227-2400

* Philadelphia Legal Assistance, 718 Arch St., Suite 300N: 215-981-3800

* SeniorLAW Center (age 60 or older), Two Penn Center, 1500 JFK Blvd, Suite 1501: 215-988-1242

All these agencies can refer you to Philadelphia VIP, which will match you with a pro-bono lawyer. Philadelphia VIP works only through referrals.