Many people compare the stress of moving to that of losing a loved. You’ll understand if you’ve experienced the stress of clearing out a deceased estate. We know that losing a loved is a difficult experience, which is why we have put together this guide to help manage a deceased estates in Melbourne.
What is the difference between moving house and clearing deceased estates?
Cleaning out an estate is different from moving home in two important ways. It’s not really your home and you don’t know the scope of the work until you begin. You’ll probably have to give away your possessions to a variety of people and organizations.
You will also need to consider who will be involved in the clearing of the estate, and whether you have left instructions in your Will. It is more difficult than moving home, when you are the main decision maker.
Step 1: Organise everyone.
The person who held the Enduring Power of attorney (also known as the EPA) will be the one to take the lead in clearing the house, as the deceased trusted them to make the best decisions for him or her.
You’ll have to meet with everyone involved to determine responsibilities and duties if no one has an EPA. Before you start, talk it out and reach an agreement. Organise people according to their age, skills and availability. The clearance will be much easier if everyone knows what their role is.
Step 2: organise a distribution centre
It’s likely that you will wonder why this is the best place to begin when clearing an entire property. We mean to clear out a room to have a place to safely store all your belongings so they go to the correct place. A bedroom should be cleared. Even if the room is cluttered, a single space that’s clear will make it easier to do the job in the end.
Step 3: take on one task at a time
Every day, it’s crucial to set realistic goals. Choose one task to complete. You can do something else if you finish the task early. Rest, hydrate yourself and eat. You can also clear a room at a given time, as this will give you more space to sort, store and distribute items.
Step 4: Start the process
Sorting your possessions into three piles is a good idea when moving house. You can sort them by keeping, selling, or donating, and throwing away. The same principles apply to clearing an estate of a deceased person, but with a few additional considerations.
1. Your will is your guide
Most wills state how the estate should be distributed. Store any items that have beneficiaries named in them until you can ship or collect. Label all items to prevent mistakes.
2. The remainder of the estate
In most wills, the remainder of the estate is also specified. The residue includes all items that are left after the specified items. You’ll have to discuss with your family who will keep what if the residue is shared among several members.
After you have sorted through and removed these items, you will need to determine what is left. What’s left? Is it possible to give any of the items a second life?
These items can be given to family members, friends or those who knew the deceased well. If you can’t take these items immediately, store them in your spare bedroom.
To sell or ship large quantities, you can contact auction houses or second-hand dealers. Second-hand dealers will often buy more than you expect. Auctioneers can tell you which items have value and will sell at auction.
3. Donate anything else
Ask your local charity shop if they have any needs. Sort the items and bring them to the shop. If you have many items to donate, some charities will come and collect them. Do not throw out old clothes, unless they’re too dirty or damaged for you to wear. Clothing and shoes are distributed by many charities to those in need.
4. Final tidy up
Recycle what you can or dispose of it at the tip.
5. Here are some useful tips
Do not forget the garage, the outside area or your garden shed.
Bins for secure document destruction are an excellent way to get rid of personal documents and papers.
If you need help, ask for it.