Short answer

Yes. If someone appointed as the estate’s personal representative (often called an administrator when there is no valid will) claims ownership of real property that you believe you inherit, you can challenge that claim in Idaho probate court. You can seek an accounting, object to actions the personal representative has taken, ask the court to remove the personal representative for breaching fiduciary duties, and pursue actions to quiet title if the representative wrongfully took title or transferred the property.

How Idaho law treats a personal representative versus an owner

Under Idaho probate law, a personal representative acts for the estate. The representative has fiduciary duties to the estate and the heirs and beneficiaries. The representative may manage, preserve, and (with court approval or under proper authority) sell estate property. But the representative does not become the personal owner of estate property simply by appointment. If a representative claims personal ownership or improperly transfers estate real property into their own name, that claim can usually be challenged.

Key steps to challenge the claim

Confirm the estate status and the representative’s authority. Check the probate case file at the county where the decedent’s estate is being administered. Look for the personal representative’s letters of appointment, inventory filed, and any court orders authorizing sales or transfers.
Collect and preserve documents. Save copies of deeds, the decedent’s will (if any), the death certificate, title records, correspondence, transfer documents, and any filings in probate court. If the representative recorded a deed or transferred title, get a certified copy of that recorded instrument.
Demand an accounting and inventory. A beneficiary or heir can ask the court to force the personal representative to file a full inventory, accounting, and explanation of actions regarding estate property. An accounting can reveal improper transfers or self-dealing.
Object in the probate case. File an objection or motion in the probate matter challenging the representative’s actions or claimed ownership. Ask the court for temporary orders (injunctions) to stop further transfers while the dispute is resolved, if appropriate.
Seek removal or surcharge for breach of fiduciary duty. If the representative acted in bad faith, misapplied assets, or converted estate property, you can ask the court to remove them and to surcharge (require repayment for losses) the estate for the improper acts.
Consider a separate civil action (quiet title or conversion). If the representative has already put title into their own name or sold the property, you may need to file a quiet title action or a tort action (e.g., conversion) to clear title and recover value. Often those civil claims are coordinated with probate actions.

Relevant Idaho law and where to read it

Idaho’s probate statutes and the law governing personal representatives and estate administration are found in Idaho Code Title 15 (Probate and Guardianship). That Title explains appointment, powers, duties, and remedies involving personal representatives. Read the statutes and related rules at the Idaho Legislature website: Idaho Code Title 15 — Probate and Guardianship.

Common legal principles that apply in Idaho

Personal representatives owe fiduciary duties to the estate and beneficiaries. Unlawful self-dealing is not permitted.
Estate property remains estate property until lawfully distributed by the probate process or until title passes by operation of law (for example, surviving joint tenancy or beneficiary designation).
Court supervision is the normal route to resolve disputes involving estate property. The probate court can order accounting, reversal of improper transfers, removal of a representative, or other relief.

Practical example (hypothetical)

Suppose a parent dies owning a house in the parent’s name. The county probate court appoints Alex as personal representative. Alex records a deed that transfers the house into Alex’s name alone and claims personal ownership. A child of the decedent who is an heir can:

Obtain the probate-filed documents and the recorded deed.
File a motion in the probate case demanding a full accounting and asking the court to set aside the deed recorded by Alex.
Ask the court to freeze further transfers and, if evidence shows misconduct, move to remove Alex as personal representative and seek repayment or other relief.

Timing and deadlines

Probate disputes often involve strict deadlines and procedural requirements. The window to object to certain actions or to contest some probate matters can be limited. Act quickly if you learn that a representative is claiming ownership or has transferred estate property.

Helpful hints

Do not confront the representative in a way that jeopardizes evidence; preserve documents and record searches instead.
Obtain a copy of the probate docket and all filings from the county court clerk where probate was opened.
Ask the court for an inventory and accounting if they have not been filed.
Consider asking the court for a temporary restraining order if the property is at immediate risk of sale or transfer.
Keep a timeline of events and a folder of all paperwork, emails, and notes of conversations.
Communicate in writing when making demands or objections so there is a clear record.
Talk to a local probate or property attorney as soon as possible. Probate practice is local; an attorney can explain deadlines, file the right pleadings, and represent you in court.

How an attorney can help

An attorney can:

Review the probate file, deeds, and documents;
Draft and file objections, motions for accounting, motions to remove a personal representative, and requests for injunctive relief;
Coordinate probate and any necessary civil actions (for example, quiet title); and
Help secure interim court orders to protect the property while the dispute is resolved.

Final note and disclaimer

This article explains general steps and principles under Idaho probate law but is not legal advice. It does not replace consultation with a licensed attorney. Laws change and every case turns on its own facts. If you need specific guidance for your situation, contact a licensed Idaho probate or real property attorney promptly.