Wills & Estate
Estate Inventory Template
An estate inventory lists everything the deceased owned and owed, which is essential for administering the estate and applying for probate.
What this estate inventory covers
- Property and land
- Bank accounts and investments
- Personal possessions of value
- Debts and liabilities
- Estimated values
When you need a estate inventory
- Administering an estate
- Applying for probate
- Calculating inheritance tax
The legal framework
Understanding the law behind a estate inventory helps you use it well. Here is the key UK legislation that applies:
Wills Act 1837
Still the governing legislation for wills in England and Wales. Section 9 sets the execution requirements (signed by the testator in the presence of two witnesses who also sign); Section 15 means a witness, or their spouse, who is also a beneficiary forfeits the gift.
Mental Capacity Act 2005
Governs lasting powers of attorney and the capacity required to make a valid will.
Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975
Allows certain people to claim from an estate if reasonable financial provision wasn't made for them.
On the horizon. In May 2025 the Law Commission published 'Modernising Wills Law' with a draft Bill proposing significant changes — including enabling electronic wills, ending the rule that marriage revokes a will, and letting courts infer undue influence. These are recommendations only and are not yet law; the Wills Act 1837 continues to apply.
Frequently asked questions
Why is an inventory needed?
It's the basis for probate and inheritance tax calculations, and helps executors account to beneficiaries.
Who prepares it?
Usually the executors or administrators, sometimes with professional help for larger estates.
How Legal Lift helps
Answer a few plain-English questions and our AI generator produces a tailored estate inventory, ready to edit, download as PDF or Word, and e-sign with LegalSign. Every template is kept current with UK law, and our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are available if you'd like it reviewed.
This page explains the law in general terms to help you understand your estate inventory. It is information, not legal advice. For guidance on your specific circumstances, our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are here to help.