Probate Delays Surge 140%, Hindering Home Sales

Probate cases taking longer than six months have risen sharply since the pandemic. Freedom of Information requests by adviser network Quilter reveal the trend.

Rising caseloads and timing

The number of estates waiting more than six months grew substantially. The rise has left many families unable to complete property sales or access funds.

Official expectations

Government guidance states grants of probate should typically issue within 16 weeks of application. The data shows many estates wait well beyond that period.

Impact on families and property transactions

About one in eight estates in 2024/25 took longer than six months to clear probate. That delay creates practical and financial problems for executors and beneficiaries.

Delays freeze bank accounts and investments. They can also halt house sales and collapse buyer chains.

Probate delays have surged by 140%, contributing to problems that are hindering home sales and adding stress.

Tax consequences and future risks

Where inheritance tax is payable, HMRC can charge interest from six months after death. Prolonged probate therefore risks higher tax bills.

Quilter warns the situation could worsen when pensions enter the inheritance tax regime. That change is scheduled for April 2027.

Industry response and advice

Financial planner Ian Futcher says families now often wait over a year. He adds some waits approach two years.

“Lengthy probate delays create stress for executors and beneficiaries,” he said. He warned stalled sales and collapsed chains add cost and grief.

Futcher suggests using the start of the new tax year for a financial MOT. He says this can reduce the burden on executors.

Filmogaz.com will continue to monitor developments as reforms approach. Policymakers and advisers face pressure to speed up probate processing.