How does an executor access a deceased client’s safe deposit box?
The short answer
An executor needs to show their legal authority, usually certified letters of executorship issued by the Master of the High Court, and verify their identity. Once Knox has checked these documents, the executor, or someone the executor properly appoints, can access the box under Knox's process. The contents are then dealt with as part of the estate, normally starting with a record of what the box holds.
Where an executor's authority comes from
An executor's power to deal with a deceased person's assets comes from letters of executorship issued by the Master of the High Court. In some smaller estates, the Master issues letters of authority instead. Being named as executor in a will is not enough on its own: the Master's appointment is what gives authority, and the box provider will ask to see it.
The general steps
- Report the death to Knox and ask what is required.
- Obtain letters of executorship or letters of authority from the Master.
- Provide certified documents and personal identification, for yourself and for anyone you appoint to act for you.
- Arrange the visit. Knox verifies the documents and arranges access under its process.
- Record the contents before anything is removed, so that the estate inventory is accurate.
Knox's executor process
Knox sets out who may access a deceased client's box and which documents it requires. An executor must provide letters of executorship (or another appointment by the Master of the High Court) and proof of identity. Knox may refuse access if it has concerns about identity or the validity of documents. The executor steps into the client's position, including responsibility for outstanding fees and costs. Until those requirements are met, the box is held under Knox's deceased-estate policy. Under Knox's agreement, if the First and Second Authorised Persons have both died, the Third Authorised Person automatically takes full control of the box; if all the client's authorised people have died or become permanently incapacitated, the executor, curator or other person legally responsible for their affairs takes their place.
Dealing with the contents
Where the contents belonged to the deceased, the executor treats them as estate property, includes them in the inventory lodged with the Master and deals with them according to the will or the law of intestate succession. Items that belonged to someone else should be identified and handled separately, with evidence of ownership. If an original will is found in the box, it must be lodged with the Master. The executor should also decide whether to keep the box rented while the estate is wound up or to close it, and settle any amounts owed under the agreement.
If you need help
Many executors appoint an attorney or fiduciary practitioner to handle the administration. If you are unsure of your obligations, take professional advice and contact the office of the Master dealing with the estate.
How Knox handles this
Ready for the next step?
Speak to the Knox team about your situation. They will confirm current pricing, availability and requirements before you decide.
