You do not need to do much before a clearance, and you certainly do not need to move anything heavy. But a handful of small jobs beforehand makes the day run far more smoothly. Here is the checklist.
Two weeks before
- Secure the important things. Gather passports, deeds, financial paperwork, wills and anything legally significant into one safe place, ideally away from the property.
- Set aside keepsakes. Photographs, jewellery and small sentimental items. These are the things people most regret losing, and they are easy to miss.
- Agree what family members are taking. If relatives want particular pieces, sort that early rather than on the day.
- Consider donating or selling. Anything in good condition can go to a charity or be sold on. Less to clear usually means a lower cost.
The week before
- Clearly separate what stays. Put it in one room, or label it obviously. Do not rely on remembering to mention it.
- Sort out parking. This is the single biggest thing that affects how long a clearance takes. Reserve a space near the property if you can.
- Check the forgotten spaces. Loft, garage, shed, cellar, outbuildings and garden. These hold more than people expect and are the most common cause of a quote changing.
- Find keys. Locked rooms, garages, sheds and gates all need access.
The day before
- Do a final walkthrough. Open every cupboard, drawer and wardrobe. Check under beds and on top of wardrobes.
- Empty the fridge and freezer if appliances are being taken.
- Take meter readings if you are handing the property over.
- Confirm timings so you know when to expect us.
On the day
- Be there at the start if you can, to point out anything that must not be removed
- Make sure the team can access every room
- You do not need to stay for the whole job
- Collect your waste transfer note before we leave
The one thing people forget
Check inside furniture before it goes. Documents, cash and jewellery turn up inside wardrobes, drawers, under mattresses and taped behind drawers surprisingly often, particularly in probate clearances. A five minute check is worth it.
Ready to book, or still working out what is involved? Get a free quote, or read the full house clearance guide for the complete picture.
None of this takes long, and it all pays off on the day. A well prepared clearance is quicker, cheaper and far less stressful for everyone.