Because you could become personally responsible of all the debts of the deceased. When you know or suspect that the deceased was in debt, it is very important not to touch any of the property or money of the deceased and to reach out to a notary immediately.

Any action can be interpreted as an acceptance of the Succession. When you accept, you cannot renounce !

Renouncing to a Succession must be done within 6 months of the death, or the moment you become aware of your right to inherit.

The deadline to renounce can be extended by an additional 60 days after the closing of the estate inventory.

If you do not renounce within the legal delay, then you are deemed to have accepted ! If you have missed the deadline, contact a notary immediately.

Renouncing to a Succession is done through a notarial document called a  Renunciation. The Renunciation

must be prepared and signed with a Notary and must be published at a registry of personal and movable rights for Quebec (RDPRM).