Will and Document Storage
Where should I store my Will?
Keeping your Will in a safe and secure location is crucial. After all, you’ve just spent money having it drafted.
We recommend storing it in a fireproof and waterproof container, such as a secure home safe or with Helen Lord Will Writing. This ensures that your Will remains protected from unforeseen events and is easily accessible when needed.
Do I need a copy?
It’s always good practice to have a copy of your Will but it’s only the original Will that’s admissible at probate.
I've lost my Will. What should I do?
Having a copy of your Will is highly recommended. It serves as a backup in case the original document is lost or damaged. Remember though, it’s only your signed Will that is admissible at Probate so it NEEDS to be kept secure and if you’ve lost your Will, you’ll need to sign a new one (in accordance with S.9 of the Wills Act).
It also allows you to review your wishes periodically and make any necessary updates. At Confidence Will, we can provide secure digital copies of your Will for your convenience and peace of mind but if you store your original Will with us, we’ll provide you with a copy for your records.
My Will has been damaged, what should I do?
In the unfortunate event that your Will has been damaged, it is crucial to take immediate action. Reach out to me, and I will guide you through the necessary steps to ensure your Will is properly restored or replaced. Time is of the essence, so do not delay in seeking assistance.
A damaged Will may not be admissible at probate and when needed.
Retrieving my Will.
With Helen Lord Will Writing, retrieving your Will is a seamless process. If you have stored your Will with us, simply get in touch and you can access your Will anytime. Our friendly team will ensure that you can retrieve and review your Will with ease, providing you with the peace of mind you deserve.
Letting executors know where your Will is.
Informing your chosen executors about the location of your Will is often a good idea.
At Helen Lord Will Writing, we provide a complimentary executor notification service. We can let them know about their appointment, about their responsibilities and provide any guidance.
Upon registration, we assist you in notifying your executors about the existence and storage details of your Will. This ensures that they can access it efficiently when the time comes, making the process as smooth as possible.
Is there a mandatory national Will register?
Currently, there is NO mandatory national Will register in place.
However, Helen Lord Will Writing offers an optional Will registry service to provide an additional layer of security. By registering your Will with us, we will create a record of your Will location, will register the location with Certainty and create a centralised record that could help executors when needed. This simplifies the process and ensures that your wishes are promptly carried out at the time of need.