Confirm who has authority, preserve documents and family items, and avoid rushed disposal before estate advice is clear. A clearance company handles agreed goods; it does not decide probate or ownership.

First secure

Keep wills, certificates, financial/property papers, keys, photographs, digital devices, medicines and valuables safe. Restrict access and document who holds keys.

Agree decisions

Name the authorised contact and record family decisions. Use keep, beneficiary/family review, valuation, donate, recycle and dispose categories. Photograph uncertain items and pause rather than guess.

Obtain the clearance scope

Inventory rooms, access, hazardous/specialist material and items excluded from removal. Verify the carrier and keep the quote, collection record and transfer evidence. Ask how saleable items or credits are valued and shown.

FAQs

Who should authorise the clearance?

The person with legal authority for the property/estate, confirmed through appropriate probate or legal advice.

How can sentimental items be separated?

Use a protected review area, photographs and a family decision log before the general clearance begins.

Suggested component

Use a Bereavement Clearance Decision Log with authority, pause and family-review fields.

Related guides

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