Sort as you go and don't rush: six steps to clearing out a loved one's home when they die

"When someone close to you dies, be it a relative or a friend, practical considerations may be far from your mind. But you could quickly find that you have the responsibility of looking after, then clearing out, their home. How their possessions, property and finances will be dealt with should be outlined in the will, if there is one. This should also name who the executor or executors of the estate are the people legally responsible for carrying out the wishes of the deceased."

"If the property is going to be empty it is important to contact the insurer once the homeowner dies. You may need to provide it with evidence that you are authorised to administer the property such as a death certificate or a lasting power of attorney document. You may have to take extra steps to ensure it is secure, such as draining the water system, checking any burglar alarm is working and keeping the heating to a suitable temperature during the winter."

"Before the will is read it is important to ensure that it and other important paperwork such as property deeds, insurance documents and bank statements are kept safe if the person's house or flat is going to be empty. As soon as you can, empty the fridge of perishable food and dispose of plants and flowers from inside the house."

Secure and manage a deceased person's home promptly by locating and protecting the will and other important paperwork, and by making the property safe if it will be vacant. Empty perishable food, remove plants and flowers, cancel regular deliveries, retrieve spare keys and lock up the property. The will should name executors who legally carry out the deceased’s wishes and manage possessions, property and finances. If there is no will, the closest living relative can apply to be administrator, typically a spouse or any adult children. Contact the insurer, provide proof of authority, and consider extra security measures, draining water systems, checking alarms, maintaining winter heating and extending cover for properties left empty over 30–60 days.

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