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.
Mortgage debt doesn't disappear. Joint mortgage: surviving borrower responsible for FULL amount (not half)—lender can repossess if unpaid. Sole mortgage: estate responsible—sell property, beneficiary assumes mortgage, or pay from estate. Family NOT liable unless guarantors. Check mortgage protection insurance. Notify lender within 1-2 weeks, request payment holiday (3-6 months available).
Have more questions on UK death administration? Let Farra help.
Surviving borrower is responsible for FULL mortgage (not just half):
Estate is responsible:
Learn more about inheriting a house with a mortgage and your options as a beneficiary.
Family members NOT on mortgage are NOT legally liable unless:
Check if deceased had mortgage life insurance:
For detailed guidance on the claims process, see our life insurance claims guide.
| Option | When to Choose | Process |
|---|---|---|
| Sell Property | No one wants to live there, need cash, can't afford payments | Market property, use proceeds to pay mortgage, distribute remaining equity |
| Pay Off Mortgage | Estate has sufficient funds, beneficiaries want property mortgage-free | Use estate funds/life insurance to redeem mortgage, property passes free of debt |
| Take Over Mortgage | Beneficiary wants property, can afford payments, lender agrees | Apply to lender for mortgage transfer, subject to affordability checks |
If beneficiary wants to keep property and take over mortgage:
If you had joint mortgage with deceased:
If deceased had existing arrears:
Understanding how debt is handled after death can help you navigate mortgage arrears and other outstanding debts.
If mortgage payments stop, lender can:
Contact lender immediately to avoid repossession
If paying off mortgage fully:
May apply if mortgage in fixed term (usually 1-5% of outstanding balance)
NO. If you're joint borrower, you must continue paying. If deceased was sole borrower, executor must arrange payment from estate or sell property. Stopping payments leads to repossession.
Lenders must follow FCA rules for bereaved customers - typically 3-6 months grace. But repossession process takes 3-6+ months from first missed payment to actual repossession. Contact lender immediately to avoid proceedings.
Estate still owes shortfall after sale. Lender may write off small amounts or pursue estate for larger shortfalls. Lender cannot pursue beneficiaries personally unless they guaranteed mortgage.
Yes, with executor permission. Mortgage payments must continue. Living there can reduce Capital Gains Tax if you later sell (Private Residence Relief).
How to claim life insurance after death: required documents, claim timeline, beneficiary rights, trusts, disputed claims, and common rejection reasons.
Am I liable for deceased partner's debt? Joint debt responsibility, joint credit cards, joint loans, joint bank accounts, when you're not liable, protecting yourself.
Step-by-step guide to notifying banks after a death in the UK. What documents you need, how to access funds before probate, joint accounts, funeral payment releases, and full timeline.
Good news: Joint accounts transfer automatically. Access funds immediately, no probate. Update name in 7 days. Full UK rights guide 2026.
Close bank accounts fast. Learn when probate isn't needed, get free letter template. Small estates under £5K simplified. UK guide 2026.
Your AI companion for UK death administration—combining practical guidance with emotional support, available 24/7.
Your AI companion for UK death administration
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