For Executors and Probate Administrators
Probate Property Management in Central Scotland
Practical oversight of empty residential properties during probate. Regular inspections, photo records and clear written reports for executors handling an estate property in Falkirk, Stirling and the surrounding region. Part of the empty homes management service across Central Scotland.
Probate Property, Looked After Properly
Steady oversight while the estate is being settled
An empty home in probate sits in an awkward position. The property still needs looking after, but the executor often lives elsewhere, holds down a full job, and is already managing solicitors, family, and the practical work of settling an estate. Insurance still applies. Heating, water, post and security still matter. Visits still need to happen.
This service is built for that situation. Regular inspections, dated photo records and short written reports give the executor a clear picture of the property without having to drive to it every week. The same records support insurance compliance and give a paper trail if anything is later questioned.
The work is hands-on and low-fuss. No long contracts, no facilities-firm jargon, no portal logins. Just steady, documented oversight of one home at a time, in a way that makes the executor's job a bit easier.
What's Included
Practical support for executors and solicitors
The service is shaped to fit how probate properties actually behave. Each visit is recorded, each finding is shared, and the executor or solicitor can decide what action to take next.
Scheduled Inspections
Visits on an agreed schedule, typically weekly or fortnightly to match the frequency required by an unoccupied property insurance policy. Each visit is dated and recorded.
Photo Documentation
Photographs taken at each visit, focused on the points that matter for an empty home. The same record set is available for the executor, the solicitor, and the insurer if it is ever needed.
Condition Reports
A short written report after each visit with practical observations on security, signs of damp or leaks, post buildup, garden state, and anything that has visibly changed since the previous visit.
Solicitor Liaison
Reports can be sent to the solicitor handling confirmation as well as the executor. Where access for a tradesperson is required, visits can be coordinated and documented alongside the regular schedule.
Security and Risk Checks
Doors, windows, garden boundaries and visible access points are checked at each visit. Anything that looks like a security or insurance concern is flagged promptly so a decision can be made.
Written Record for the Estate
The full set of visit notes and photographs is retained for the duration of the engagement, giving the executor a clean record of how the property was looked after during the probate period.
How It Fits The Probate Timeline
A simple way to keep the property looked after, from confirmation to sale
Probate in Scotland is officially called confirmation. It is granted by the Sheriff Court and gives the executor authority to deal with the estate, including the deceased's home. From the moment the property becomes empty to the day it is sold or transferred, regular oversight reduces risk and supports the executor's duty of care.
Initial Conversation
A short call to confirm the property address, current status, access details, and any specific points the executor or solicitor wants checked. Insurance requirements are noted at this stage so visit frequency can be matched.
First Visit and Baseline
A first visit produces a baseline record of the property's condition and security, with photographs, so future visits can be compared against a known starting point. The baseline is shared with the executor before the regular schedule begins.
Ongoing Visits Until Sale
Visits continue on the agreed schedule until the property is sold or transferred. Reports go to the executor, the solicitor, or both. The service ends cleanly when the property changes hands.
Common Questions From Executors
Frequently asked questions
How often should a probate property be inspected in Scotland?
Most insurers expect an unoccupied residential property to be inspected at least every 7 to 14 days, depending on the policy. The exact requirement is set out in the policy schedule. Inspections should be recorded with dated notes and photographs so the executor can demonstrate compliance if a claim is later made.
Can you liaise with the solicitor handling confirmation?
Yes. Reports, photographs and updates can be shared directly with the solicitor, the executor, or both. Communication is kept simple and documented so everyone involved in the estate has the same record of the property condition during the confirmation process.
What about council tax on a probate property in Scotland?
Most empty and unfurnished homes in Scotland are exempt from council tax for six months after the previous occupier left. After that, councils can apply a higher levy on long-term empty properties, although protections exist while a property is being actively marketed for sale or let. Local council guidance should be checked. See mygov.scot for the current rules.
Do you cover properties outside Falkirk and Stirling?
Yes. Coverage runs across Central Scotland and includes Falkirk, Stirling, Clackmannanshire, West Lothian, North Lanarkshire and the surrounding towns and villages. If the property sits just outside these areas, get in touch through the contact page and the situation can usually be discussed.
What happens if you find a problem during a visit?
Any concern is recorded with photographs and a short written note, then reported to the executor or solicitor promptly so a decision can be made on next steps. Where access for a tradesperson is needed, that can be coordinated and documented as part of the ongoing service.
Where can I get general advice on empty homes in Scotland?
The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership runs a free, impartial advice service hosted by Shelter Scotland and is a useful starting point for owners and executors who want general guidance before deciding on next steps.
Talk It Through
Have a probate property to look after?
Start a straightforward conversation about the property, its current status, and how often visits are needed. The contact form on the home page is the simplest way to get in touch, or call directly on the number below.
Direct Contact
Service Area
Coverage across Central Scotland for privately owned vacant residential properties.
- Falkirk
- Stirling
- Clackmannanshire
- West Lothian
- North Lanarkshire
- Surrounding towns and villages
Based locally in Larbert, with flexible coverage across the region.