Clearing a property after a bereavement is one of the more difficult tasks an executor or family member will face. This guide explains how probate house clearance works, what to do before calling a clearance company, and how we work sensitively on every bereavement clearance in Dorset.
What is a probate house clearance?
A probate house clearance is the process of clearing a property after the owner has died. It usually happens after probate has been granted — or sometimes before, with the agreement of the beneficiaries — and before the property is sold or transferred. The clearance may involve the whole property or just certain rooms, depending on what the executor and beneficiaries have agreed.
When can you start clearing a property after someone dies?
Strictly, a property should not be cleared until probate is granted and the executor has authority to deal with the estate's assets. In practice, many families begin removing personal items, documents and valuables before probate is granted, provided all beneficiaries agree. Speak to the solicitor handling the estate if you are unsure. We are happy to work at whatever stage is appropriate and to pause if timescales change.
What to do before the clearance
- Secure the property — check insurance is in place and that the property is locked and alarmed if possible.
- Locate and remove documents — wills, title deeds, financial documents, passports, driving licences.
- Identify valuables — jewellery, art, collections, antiques. Remove these or flag them clearly for the clearance team.
- Agree with beneficiaries — establish what (if anything) is to be kept, and by whom. A brief walkthrough with the executor before we start avoids any misunderstandings.
- Notify the solicitor — confirm they are aware of the clearance and that it is appropriate to proceed.
How we handle probate clearances
We understand that clearing a loved one's home is emotionally difficult. We work quietly, respectfully and without rushing. Before we start we walk through the property with the executor or their representative to agree what is being cleared. We never dispose of anything that looks valuable or unusual without checking first.
After the clearance we issue a Waste Transfer Note (your legal proof of responsible disposal) and, if required, an itemised inventory or an invoice addressed to the estate. We can provide an unbranded vehicle and a plain-clothed team if discretion is important to the family.
Paperwork you will receive
- Waste Transfer Note — legal proof that all waste was collected by a licensed carrier and disposed of responsibly. Required for due diligence and often requested by solicitors.
- Estate-payable invoice — addressed to the estate so the cost can be settled from estate funds before distribution.
- Itemised report — available on request, listing categories of items cleared. Useful where beneficiaries want a record.
What happens to cleared items?
Everything is sorted for maximum eco-friendly processing. Furniture, clothing and household items in usable condition are diverted to local reuse. Books, records and collectable items may go to specialist outlets. Only items that cannot be reused or recycled go to a licensed waste transfer station.