Sorting through the possessions of a recently deceased loved one is an emotional process. Along with the possibility of career advancement, it typically introduces emotional distress and logistical hurdles. Just Clear, a house clearance company based in London, wants you to know that house clearance can take weeks to finalize. As TCRP Chief Executive Brendan O’Shea explains, the value in this work is in understanding the nuance of each situation. Most enter knowing they’ll be the one to do it all, until they’re buried.
In the wake of this crisis, O’Shea shines a light on the emotional burden of mourning in this cutthroat business. It deeply shapes the way people approach this complex challenge. Some may find themselves prolonging the process, unable to confront their feelings or make decisions about their loved one’s belongings.
“It gives them anxiety,” O’Shea notes. It is this sentiment that highlights the importance of having supportive services when going through a difficult period in life.
The Practical Steps of House Clearance
When confronted with the overwhelming process of clearing a family home, Just Clear suggests taking it step by step. Their method requires you to work from room to room, and as you enter a new space, you start sorting as you go. This approach does more than guide the logistical process. It assists in handling the emotional stress that comes into play, too.
An average three-bedroom property with one person living in it usually takes Just Clear only a day to clear. O’Shea admits it depends on a pretty wide range of individual situations.
“It’s all down to the individual,” he asserts, highlighting that each person’s experience will differ based on their emotional readiness and the volume of items to sort through.
If you are intimidated by the prospect of going through so many things, relax. O’Shea recommends sending items to an auction house or donating them to a charity. This can help give them closure as they capture the memory and sense of purpose to their decluttering process for their loved one.
Legal Considerations and Property Security
Alongside emotional difficulties, practical and legal issues come into play when clearing a deceased person’s house. If the deceased has passed without a will, the nearest relative with the highest right can apply to become the administrator. This scenario sometimes results in additional challenges in administering the estate.
As O’Shea warns, most typical home insurance policies will not fully protect homes that are vacant for longer than 30 days. Relatedly, some policies cover less than 60 days in a row. This requires making additional efforts to ensure the property is protected while clearing.
Homeowners might need to drain water systems, ensure burglar alarms are operational, and maintain appropriate heating levels during colder months to prevent damage.
The Financial Aspects of House Clearance
Estimate of cost to carry out the house clearance This is one of the most important factors. Even including recycling charges and labor costs Just Clear can charge about £1,700 (plus VAT) for their services. This fee reinforces how meticulous they are in providing their services. It highlights the financial burden of having to clear out a loved one’s home.
Her company O’Shea had managed complex projects including those that involve surprises from archaeological clearances. For example, a few years ago they came across two Picasso ceramics in a private house in Knightsbridge, which went for £120,000. These examples serve as a helpful reminder to families that priceless treasures can be found tucked away within common possessions.
O’Shea notes that his company receives inquiries from clients worldwide, including Australia and America, reflecting a universal challenge faced by those dealing with loss.