Itemisation of probate values

[Catso]

(Hope the title makes sense!)

How would I find out how the total of a person's estate was made up?

I have obtained a copy of the will, from the Probate Office, and all it has is the total of the estate. I need to find out the value that was given to some property I have inherited, as I will need to know this for my tax declaration when I sell it.

[dzug]

Ask the executors - they are duty bound to tell you the value of what you have inherited if you are a beneficiary.

[Catso]

Thanks, dzug - I had a feeling that would be the answer. I have tried to get it from them twice now, once by phone ("we'll call you back"), once by letter (no response at all).

They were rather unhelpful during the handover of the property, as well. A lot of "that's not our problem, we're just acting for your late uncle".

Oh dear!

[themas]

Are the executors professionals - such as a firm of solicitors or a bank? If so, you can go through the relevant complaints machinery. If they are just private individuals it is more difficult. You could try talking to the Probate Registry and ask them what the obligations of the executors are, and how they can be enforced.

[dzug]

The other thing you can do is ask the Inland Revenue if you can establish which office handled the estate's paperwork.

[Catso]

I know who handled the estate, it was a firm of solicitors. As I say, they've been unhelpful all the way through it all. Now they are just ignoring me.

[themas]

Go to the Law Society website and get the information about their solicitors complaints service. Get the necessary form. Write to the complaints partner of the firm that did the work setting out your complaint and sending a copy of the form. If you do not get satisfaction go to the complaints service. Keep a copy of all correspondence and send it by recorded delivery.