Inherited tenants claiming rent to own status

[Andre Jones]

Good evening 

I'm getting ready to start the probate process for my father's estate and I spoke with two of his "tenants" who are claiming they had some rent to own or lease purchase agreement with him prior to his passing. My father had mentioned in conversation that one of his tenants had defaulted on a rent to own a few years ago but he never told me specifically who it was. 

I haven't been able to find any paperwork verifying their claims from my end and I asked for a copy of their agreement and was told they needed to find it. When I pressed for more information, they were kind of stand-offish and stuttering. My instincts tell me they are lying but I want to cover my butt as well. 

Is this type of thing common when homeowners pass away? If they are valid, do I have to honor this agreement since it's not a "lease"? If they were late or missed a payment say in March, could I still default them on the contract now in August?