1
Confirm who is authorised to act
Keep a clear record of the executor, personal representative, solicitor or other authorised person who can approve access, expenditure and work at the property.
Free practical resource
Probate Property Checklist for Executors
A clear, practical checklist for looking after an empty or inherited property while an estate is being administered in the UK.
Looking after the property while probate is progressing
An executor may need to deal with insurance, security, access, utilities, maintenance and sale preparation alongside the legal administration of the estate. The precise steps depend on the property, the insurer's requirements and the executor's authority.
This checklist focuses on practical property care. It is not legal, tax, insurance, valuation or surveying advice. For official information about applying for probate, visit GOV.UK.
Executor checklist
Practical steps to consider
2
Notify the property insurer
Tell the insurer that the owner has died and whether the property is vacant. Ask for the policy conditions in writing, including inspection frequency, heating, water, security and reporting requirements.
3
Secure the property
Check doors, windows, outbuildings, alarms and visible signs of damage. Avoid advertising that the property is empty, and arrange urgent security work where authorised.
4
Record keys and access
List every known key holder and record each collection, handover and return. Confirm who may enter before giving access to estate agents, valuers, surveyors or contractors.
5
Arrange documented inspections
Follow the insurer's required schedule. Keep dated photographs and concise notes covering the property's visible condition, security, utilities and any issues needing attention.
6
Check utilities and essential services
Identify current suppliers, take meter readings where appropriate and decide how heating, electricity, water and drainage should be managed. Do not disconnect services without checking the consequences.
7
Redirect or collect post
Prevent post from accumulating visibly and make suitable arrangements for important correspondence. Handle personal information securely.
8
Identify urgent maintenance
Deal promptly with authorised work needed to prevent further damage, such as leaks, storm damage, broken glazing, overgrown access routes or pest problems. Keep estimates, approvals and invoices.
9
Keep an inventory and photographic record
Before moving or disposing of contents, create an appropriate record and obtain the necessary authority. Valuable, personal or sensitive items may require special handling.
10
Coordinate professional access
Plan access for valuers, estate agents, surveyors, tradespeople and clearance teams. Give clear written instructions and request reports or evidence of completed work.
11
Prepare for clearance carefully
Confirm what must be retained, valued, donated, recycled or removed. Use appropriate providers and obtain approval before clearance begins.
12
Prepare the property for sale
When authorised and appropriate, coordinate cleaning, garden work, minor repairs, photographs and access so the property is ready for valuation, marketing and viewings.
Visit record
Information to keep after each property check
Date and time of visit
Name of person attending
Entry and exit method
Exterior condition
Interior condition
Doors, windows and security
Visible leaks, damp or damage
Heating and temperature where required
Meter readings where requested
Garden and boundary condition
Photographs taken
Actions required and reported
Important: the insurer's conditions take priority. Always check the actual policy rather than relying on a general inspection schedule.
Nationwide practical support
Need help coordinating a probate property?
Oakmere Estates can coordinate inspections, keys, authorised access, maintenance and sale preparation for solicitors, executors and families across the UK.