Dealing with Personal Belongings

Sorting through a loved one's personal belongings is emotionally difficult. It is just one part of the wider process. See our guide on what to do when someone dies for the full picture. There's no rush. Take your time, and don't feel pressured to clear everything at once.

What does the will say?

Check the will first. It may include:

• Specific gifts of particular items to named people
• A general gift of "personal possessions" or "chattels" to someone
• Instructions about what should happen to everything else

If there's no will

Personal belongings form part of the estate and pass according to intestacy rules, usually to the spouse or closest relatives.

Dealing with specific gifts

If the will leaves specific items to named people, the executor should:

• Make a list of all specific gifts
• Locate each item
• Contact beneficiaries to arrange collection or delivery
• Keep records of what's been distributed

Valuing belongings

For probate purposes, you need to value personal possessions. For most household contents:

• Be realistic, as second-hand value is usually low
• Clothing, everyday furniture, and household items rarely have significant value
• Get professional valuations for antiques, art, jewellery, or collections
• Keep evidence of valuations

Options for belongings

• Family: Offer items to family members first
• Charity shops: Good for clothing and household items
• Auction: For valuable items or large quantities
• House clearance companies: For clearing a whole property
• Specialist dealers: For collections (books, stamps, coins, etc.)

Sentimental items

Some items have sentimental rather than monetary value. Consider:

• Photographs: could copies be made for different family members?
• Letters and documents: these may be precious family history
• Small mementos: even inexpensive items can be meaningful
• Ask family members if there's anything specific they'd like

Take your time

Unless there's a pressing reason (such as needing to sell a property), there's no deadline for clearing belongings. Many people find it helpful to deal with things gradually, or to ask family members or friends to help.