Probate genealogist and heir tracer

Solicitors, estate administrators and executors, and sometimes the heirs themselves. Fees are agreed with whoever instructs you.

Fixed or hourly fees for research billed to solicitors and administrators. Some firms in this field work on a percentage of an inheritance, but check what is permitted and appropriate before offering this.

• Rigorous evidence-based research
• Knowledge of UK inheritance and intestacy basics
• Professional report writing
• Tact when contacting unknown relatives

• Professional indemnity insurance is strongly worth checking, as errors can affect who inherits
• Data protection and confidentiality: check ICO registration and how you handle sensitive information
• Rules on approaching potential heirs and charging a share of an estate: check current professional guidance
• Income can be uneven, as instructions come in irregularly and payment may wait on the estate
• Established firms dominate this niche, so expect it to take time to win trust

Startup costs are typically around £500 to £3,000, depending on research subscriptions, equipment, insurance and any training you choose. These are estimates, so cost your own plan, including professional indemnity insurance, which is strongly worth checking.

Monthly revenue is typically around £500 to £3,000, depending on how many instructions you win and the fees agreed. Income can be uneven, and payment may wait on the estate. These are estimates, not guarantees, and established firms can make winning trust slow.

Check data protection and confidentiality, including ICO registration and how you handle sensitive information. Also check current professional guidance on approaching potential heirs and charging a share of an estate, and look into professional indemnity insurance.