Deceased Estate Checklist

Property security and utilities

Secure the property and ensure insurance remains current. Notify the insurer of the change in occupancy if required.

Arrange mail collection or redirection when appropriate. Check that electricity, gas and water are connected if the property will remain vacant — stagnant pipes and switched-off power create their own problems.

• Check locks, alarms and access keys
• Confirm insurance coverage
• Arrange mail handling
• Maintain essential utilities if property is vacant

Initial property walk-through

Remove perishable food and rubbish that may attract pests. Open windows briefly for ventilation if the property has been closed up.

Photograph each room for records. Note maintenance issues — leaking taps, broken fences, overgrown gardens — that may need attention before sale.

Sorting and clearance

Identify items for family, beneficiaries, donation and disposal. Set aside important documents and valuables.

Plan clearance in stages if the volume is large. Professional help can accelerate this phase significantly.

• Documents to solicitor
• Keepsakes to family
• Donations to charity
• Rubbish and unwanted contents removed

Preparation for next steps

Decide whether the property will be sold, rented, transferred to a beneficiary or held temporarily. Each path has different preparation needs.

Coordinate garden maintenance, cleaning, repairs and presentation with your agent or solicitor's timeline.

Professional support

Engage practical estate assistance early if you are time-poor, interstate or facing a large property. Early planning prevents rushed decisions.

Contact Kenny's for help with any checklist item related to clearing, cleaning, maintaining or preparing the property.