House clearance for executors

Executors (and administrators where there is no will) often inherit a house full of decisions. The legal work sits with you and the solicitor. The practical work — emptying rooms so the house can be sold or transferred — is what a clearance company can help with.

This is not legal advice. Start with GOV.UK’s probate overview.

Authority

We need a named person who can instruct us. That is usually the executor, administrator, or a solicitor acting for them. If beneficiaries disagree, stop and settle the instruction first.

Before you book a van

1. Secure papers, photographs and jewellery.
2. Check the will for specific gifts.
3. Ask whether any contents need a formal valuation for the estate.
4. Photograph rooms for a quote.
5. Decide loft, garage and garden stores.

We do not provide probate valuations. If HMRC or the solicitor needs values, use an appropriate valuer.

Waste and duty of care

If you arrange for someone to take waste from the property, take reasonable steps to use an authorised carrier. The duty of care code applies to occupiers of domestic property; executors arranging a clearance should still choose a carrier they can check. Use the Environment Agency register.

On the day

A keyholder can attend instead of you if the keep room is labelled. Ask for confirmation of what was taken if you need a record for the estate file.

The service page is probate house clearance. The family-facing page is bereavement clearance.