Estate administration

Most of the Estates we administer are finalised within 12 months from the time we start. Some matters, however, are beyond our control. For example, obtaining tax clearance is largely dependent on HMRC, while the sale of a property will reflect the conditions of the property market. We’ll let you know of any unexpected delay.

This rarely happens, but when it does we usually seek legal advice to confirm the interests of the Beneficiaries before making any payments. In England and Wales, we may also defer making payments for seven months after the Grant of Representation is issued if we know that someone may be able to claim on the Estate under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. We’ll let you know if it’s necessary to delay payments to you for this reason.

Our fees are usually deducted from the Estate, and if we’re the Executor, the charges will probably have been authorised in the Will. If we’re appointed as the Administrator, the Beneficiaries will agree charges before we carry out the work. Please see our ‘Will Writing Service Fees. Estate Administration Service Fees and Terms and Conditions’ document for further details.

Yes. Court fees will need to be paid when we apply for the Grant of Representation. Fees for specialist services may also have to be paid to third parties, such as solicitors and estate agents (for example, in relation to marketing and conveyancing services where a property is to be sold), and to tax consultants. These fees are deducted from the Estate and will vary depending on the circumstances of each case. Details of these fees for a particular Estate or Trust will be available from the Bank.

No. We try to deal with the property according to the wishes of the Beneficiaries. For example, we may be able to transfer the property into the names of the Beneficiaries after receiving the Grant of Representation or Confirmation if that’s what everyone wants and if circumstances allow.

No. Our Estate Administration Service is provided by Hugh James, Solicitors. If your Estate is in Scotland, Hugh James, Solicitors will appoint Brodies LLP, Solicitors to act on their behalf.