Questions executors and families ask

Island Estate Clearing answers common questions from executors and families across Vancouver Island, British Columbia. We explain how household contents are evaluated, what happens to unsold items, and how we work during the 21-day Form P1 notice period. You can read through our clear guidelines before deciding on your next steps.

Does the house have to wait for probate before it can be cleared?

Household contents are almost never what holds up an estate. You send out the Form P1 notice at least 21 days before applying for probate. Court processing takes two to three months after that, giving us time to clear the house. We appraise and account for anything of real value first.

Does anyone need to know what things are worth before calling?

No. Figuring out what has resale value is part of our job. You do not need to appraise anything before calling us. You don't need to research, sort or price anything before making contact.

What does it cost to clear a house?

Our price depends on what is inside the home rather than square footage. Two houses of the same size can hold very different amounts. The drivers are volume, how many items have resale value, and how easily our truck can reach the house.

What happens if you live out of province?

An executor living out of town can run the entire process with us remotely. We send photos, video walk-throughs and written updates so you never have to travel here in person.

What are the probate fees in British Columbia?

The court filing fee is $200, waived for estates under $25,000. Probate fees on gross assets are nil up to $25,000, $6 per $1,000 from $25,001 to $50,000, and $14 per $1,000 above $50,000 under the Probate Fee Act.

What happens to belongings nobody in your family wants?

We sell what has resale value, offer usable household goods to local donation channels, and recycle or dispose of the rest. We give you a written summary of what sold and what was donated, for the estate file.

How long does administering an estate usually take?

Court processing takes two to three months. Full administration usually takes 8 to 12 months after the court issues the grant. The contents of your house don't need to wait for either.

Are outbuildings, shops and acreage included?

Yes. On rural properties the shop or barn often holds more than the house. We sort through tooling, machinery and scrap metal item by item.

Which areas are covered?

Vancouver Island. We work regularly in Qualicum Beach, Parksville, Nanaimo and Ladysmith, as well as nearby areas like Coombs, Errington, Bowser, Nanoose Bay, Lantzville, Cedar, Yellow Point and Saltair.