Under New York law, committing ameliorative waste is permitted:

• A. It is permitted only with consent from remaindermen
• B. It is permitted unless remaindermen object
• C. It requires knowledge by remaindermen
• D. It is never permitted

Answer: (B)

Ameliorative waste covers improvements that actually raise the value of the property. In New York, a life tenant may make such improvements and engage in ameliorative waste without needing prior consent, provided the changes are reasonable and align with the property’s use and market realities. The catch is that the future-interest holders (remaindermen) can object; if they do object, the life tenant’s improvements can be challenged or limited, and the life tenant may be liable for any adverse effects on the remaindermen’s interests. So the rule is that ameliorative waste is permitted unless remaindermen object.