Contents
1. First Steps After the Death
Before thinking about clearing the house, certain administrative procedures are a priority:
- Death declaration to the municipality (within 24 hours)
- Contact the notary to open the succession
- Terminate or transfer contracts (electricity, gas, water, insurance)
- Secure the property: check locks, home insurance
2. Inventory and Sorting Belongings
Before clearing, take the time to make an inventory. This step is important to:
- Identify valuable items (jewellery, paintings, antique furniture)
- Locate important documents (deeds, contracts, family photos)
- Allow heirs to choose keepsakes
- Facilitate fair distribution among heirs
How to organise the sorting?
Create clear categories:
3. What to Do with Valuable Items?
You may have hidden treasures without knowing it. Here's how to identify them:
Potentially valuable items:
- Antique furniture: wardrobes, sideboards, chests from before 1950
- Paintings and engravings: even small formats can have value
- Silverware: cutlery, trays, marked candlesticks
- Porcelain: antique dinner services, figurines
- Jewellery and watches: even antique costume jewellery
- Collections: stamps, coins, old postcards
Did you know?
At AAB, we buy antiques for immediate cash. The value of objects can sometimes fully cover the cost of clearing, or even earn you money!
Learn more about buyback4. Options for Clearing the House
Option 1: Clear it yourself
Advantages: Economical, allows taking your time
Disadvantages: Very time-consuming, physically demanding, requires a vehicle and access to recycling centres
Option 2: Hire a professional
Advantages: Fast (1-3 days), all-inclusive, possible buyback of valuable items
Disadvantages: Variable cost depending on volume
Option 3: Mixed solution
Collect keepsakes and important items yourself, then hire a professional for the rest.
5. Hiring a Professional: How Does It Work?
Here's the typical process for a professional house clearance:
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no strict legal deadline, but it is recommended to clear the property within 6 months of the death to avoid costs (rent, charges, insurance). In case of inheritance, the notary may impose a deadline for the sale.
The heirs are responsible for clearing the house. In case of multiple heirs, they must agree on the distribution of goods and the choice of service provider. A representative can be appointed to manage the operations.
The cost varies depending on volume and presence of valuable items. Three possible scenarios:
- You are paid: if there are many valuable antiques
- Free: the value of items compensates the work
- Fixed fee from €150: only bulky items without value
Need help clearing a house?
Our team supports you with professionalism and discretion. Free quote with no obligation.