In Scotland, the legal process of dealing with someone's estate is called confirmation, the equivalent of probate in England. The executor is responsible for the estate, which usually includes the contents of the home, and will often need the property cleared before it can be sold or returned to a landlord.
How we help executors
- A clear plan before work starts: what is being kept by the family, what may need to be valued, and what can be cleared.
- Papers and valuables set aside: we look out for documents, bank statements, share certificates, jewellery and items of possible value, and return them to the executor.
- Working with solicitors: we can collect keys, take instructions from the solicitor handling the estate and keep them informed.
- Clear records: we confirm in writing what was done and when, which helps when the estate is being wound up.
- Ready for sale: the property is left empty and swept for the estate agent, surveyor or new owner.
Before you book
If there is a will, or a solicitor is involved, check that the executor is happy for the contents to be cleared. If items might be valuable, such as antiques, art or collections, it is worth having them valued first. We can work around a valuer's visit.
Sensitive and unhurried
An estate clearance is often also a family's goodbye to a much-loved home. Our bereavement house clearance page explains how we approach that side of the work.
How it works
- 1
Tell us what you need
Share a few details about the property, its location and the items you need cleared. Photos help.
- 2
Receive your quote
We review your requirements, explain what is included and give you a clear, no-obligation quote.
- 3
Arrange your clearance
Once the details are agreed, we book a date that suits you and the people involved.
- 4
We clear it with care
Our team does the lifting, loading and sorting, setting aside anything you want to keep.
- 5
Left tidy
Items are reused, donated or recycled where possible, and the property is left swept and clear.
What happens to the things we take away
We sort as we clear. Furniture and household goods in good condition go to reuse and charity partners where they will be accepted, materials such as metal, wood, textiles and electricals are recycled, and only what cannot be reused or recycled is disposed of. We are a registered waste carrier with . Our registration number is available to customers on request.
Reuse and donate
Usable furniture and household goods go to local charities and reuse projects.
Recycle
Metal, wood, textiles, paper and electricals go to licensed recycling facilities.
Dispose legally
Only what cannot be reused or recycled is disposed of, with waste transfer notes kept for every job.
Questions people ask
Do I need confirmation before clearing a house?
It depends on the estate. The executor should decide when the contents can be removed, and a solicitor can advise. We can work to whatever timescale they set.
Can you deal directly with the solicitor?
Yes. With the executor's agreement we can take instructions from, and report back to, the solicitor handling the estate.
What happens to valuable items?
Anything that looks valuable or important is set aside and returned to the executor, so it can be valued or distributed under the will.
For official guidance, see applying for confirmation on mygov.scot. We are not solicitors and cannot give legal advice.
Free, no-obligation quotes
Need a house cleared? Start with a free quote.
Tell us about the property and what needs clearing. A few photos are the quickest way to an accurate price, and we will explain the next steps.