Legal Definitions - housekeeper

In a legal context, a housekeeper refers to an individual who is in actual possession of and occupies an entire house. This means they have the legal right to control and reside in the dwelling as a whole, not just a portion of it. This legal definition is distinct from the common understanding of a person employed to clean or manage a household.

Here are some examples to illustrate this legal term:

• Example 1: A Homeowner
  Scenario: David purchased a single-family home and lives there with his family. He holds the deed to the property and uses it as his primary residence.
  Explanation: David is the legal owner and physically resides in the entire property. He has actual possession and occupies the whole house, fitting the legal definition of a housekeeper.
• Example 2: A Sole Tenant
  Scenario: Maria rents a standalone house under a single lease agreement. She lives there alone and has exclusive access to all rooms and areas of the property.
  Explanation: Although Maria does not own the house, her lease grants her exclusive possession and the right to occupy the entire dwelling. She controls and resides in the whole house, thus legally qualifying as a housekeeper.
• Example 3: An Executor Managing an Estate
  Scenario: After his aunt's passing, John, as the executor of her estate, moves into her vacant house for several months. His purpose is to sort through her belongings, prepare the property for sale, and ensure its security until the estate is settled.
  Explanation: During this period, John is in actual possession and occupies the entire house to fulfill his legal duties, even if temporarily. He has control over the whole property, making him a housekeeper in this specific legal sense.