Assuming that you have been appointed as the executor of the property. You now have the responsibility of clearing out a house after a relative dies which can be an emotional and stressful time. This article provides information on how to efficiently dispose of, reuse, and donate the possessions of your relative.
Does it matter if the house was owned or rented? No, If the house is to be sold, it must be completely cleared. You have a legal obligation to ensure the house is empty before handing over ownership. If the house was rented, check with the landlord or housing executive as some items, (furniture, white goods, garden equipment) may belong to them.
Distributing the Contents of a House?
If you have lost a loved one, you may be wondering what happens to the contents of a house after a relative dies. After a person dies, their property and possessions are distributed among family members. In many situations, most family members have their own houses and do not require the possessions of a relative. So how do you clear a house out after a relative dies? There are several options available with regard to emptying a house.
Donate to charities: Most local charities in your area will be more than glad to accept furniture, white goods, clothing, books, children’s toys, and more. Some charities provide a collection service where they will call the house and collect the items to be donated.
Sell Items at auction: Items of value, furniture, antiques, and pictures could be sold at a local auction house. The best way to arrange this is to take several pictures of the items you wish to sell. Forward the images to the auction house for an appraisal. If the auction house confirms that the items are of value, they may also offer a collection service.
Private sale: Selling items privately can be very profitable if you have no deadlines. In most situations, a property will be put up for sale or will need to be cleared within a certain time frame. Selling your relative’s possessions privately can be very time-consuming, but in some situations is a great option.
Hiring a House Clearance Company
One of the fastest ways to clear out a house after a relative dies is to hire a house-clearance company. Professional clearance companies who empty houses on a daily basis will be able to clear an entire house in a day. Some of the benefits of hiring a house clearance service vs clearing the house yourself.
1) House clearance companies are experienced in dismantling and removing large awkward bulky furniture.
2) They have the resources and contacts to disburse items that are no longer required.
3) Due to the additional staff members and large vans, house clearances can take as little as a few hours.
4) Hiring the service of a professional clearance company helps to remove emotional stress.
Should you decide to hire the services of a clearance company. Search Google using the term “house clearance company” (with your location)” which will display local companies in your area. Always check that the company is licensed by your local authority. In Northern Ireland all companies that transport waste must be licensed by the Northern Ireland Environmental Agency.
