How a bereavement clearance should be handled
Before the clear starts, the firm should talk through what the family wants to keep, what should be offered to relatives, and anything that needs valuing. Paperwork, photographs, letters, jewellery and anything that looks important should be put aside and handed back to you.
Working with executors and solicitors
If you are an executor, you may need the property cleared before sale and may need a record of what was removed. Ask whether the firm can work with your solicitor or estate agent, collect keys and give you a written summary of the clearance.
Items with value
Furniture, collectables and other items with resale value can reduce the cost of the clearance. Where something may be valuable, it is worth having it looked at by an auction house or valuer before it goes. A good clearance firm will point these out.
What goes wrong
Rushed clearances lose things that matter, such as a will, bank letters or family photos tucked into a drawer. Clearances by unregistered carriers can lead to fly-tipping and fines for the estate. Taking the time to sort properly avoids both.
Probate clearance questions
Do we need probate before clearing the house?
Not always, but executors often wait until they have authority to deal with the estate. If unsure, ask the solicitor handling the estate. This is not legal advice.
Can family take items first?
Yes. We recommend family remove or mark everything they want before the clearance day.