Farra is a death administration assistant for UK families. Get step-by-step guidance for registering a death, applying for probate, notifying banks, and managing bereavement admin. From essential documents to practical checklists, Farra simplifies estate paperwork and funeral-related tasks so you can focus on what matters.
Clearing a House After Death UK: Step-by-Step Guide, Costs & What to Keep 2025
By Farra Editorial Team•6 min read•Last updated: 15 October 2025
How do I clear a house after a death?
1You cannot legally sell, give away, or dispose of valuable estate assets until the executor has legal authority — either probate or letters of administration — to do so
2There is no legal deadline to clear a house after death unless it is rented (in which case the tenancy and rent obligations continue until formally ended) or is being sold
3Always secure important documents first — the will, financial records, insurance policies, property deeds, and any share certificates are essential for estate administration
4Professional house clearance typically costs £300–£500 for a one-bedroom flat rising to £800–£2,000 for larger properties; clearance costs are a legitimate estate administration expense
5Valuables including jewellery, art, antiques, and collections should be professionally valued before disposal — selling or giving them away before valuation may cause IHT assessment problems
Get executor permission first. Secure valuables and locate important documents (will, financial records). Allow 2-3 months—no legal deadline unless rented or being sold. Professional clearance costs £300-£2,000. Keep items needed for probate. Take time with sentimental belongings—don't rush decisions.
Clearing a house after someone dies is one of the most emotional and overwhelming tasks in bereavement. This comprehensive guide helps you approach it systematically, from deciding what to keep to hiring clearance services, while managing the emotional challenges.
First: Give Yourself Time
There is no legal deadline to clear a house after death (unless it's rented or being sold urgently). Take the time you need:
• Wait until after the funeral if possible
• Allow yourself to grieve before starting
• Expect it to take 2-3 months (not one weekend)
• Don't rush decisions about sentimental items
Before You Start Clearing
Get Permission from the Executor
Before clearing anything, confirm with the executor that you have permission. The executor is legally responsible for the deceased's property and must authorize any clearance.
Locate Important Documents First
Before throwing anything away, find these critical documents:
Will (original - check with solicitor, in safe, desk drawers)
Financial documents: Bank statements, investment accounts, pension papers
Property deeds and mortgage documents
Insurance policies (life insurance, home insurance)
Inform council property is empty (may affect council tax)
Keep Records
Save for probate and tax purposes:
Receipts for clearance costs (deductible from estate for IHT)
Photos of donated items
Inventory of items kept by each beneficiary
Timeline and Checklist
Realistic Timeline
Week 1-2: Secure valuables, find documents
Week 3-4: Start sorting in one room
Week 5-8: Continue sorting room by room
Week 9-10: Selling, donating, disposal
Week 11-12: Final clearance, cleaning, security
Total: 2-3 months is realistic for thorough clearance
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to clear a house after death?
There's no legal deadline unless the property is rented (may have notice period) or being sold (buyer sets completion date). Take the time you need - 2-3 months is typical.
Can I clear a house before probate?
Yes, with executor permission. However, keep valuable items secure for probate valuation, and don't distribute items specifically left in the will until probate is granted.
Who pays for house clearance?
House clearance costs are paid from the deceased's estate. Keep receipts - clearance costs are deductible from the estate for Inheritance Tax purposes.
What if family members disagree about clearing the house?
The executor has final say on house clearance. Hold a "sorting day" where family members can choose items they want. For valuable items mentioned in the will, follow the will's instructions.
Can I keep finding money/valuables as I clear?
Yes - check everywhere! Common hiding places: books, envelopes, pockets, under mattresses, behind pictures, in tins. All money and valuables found belong to the estate and must be declared for probate.