The recent return of the Bona Vacantia (BV) list marks an important moment for genealogists, probate researchers, and families seeking to recover unclaimed estates. After being temporarily removed from public access amid a BBC investigation into fraud and vulnerabilities within the probate system, the list is now once again available. While this is a welcome development, it is not without new challenges.
At Family Wise, we believe it is important to look at both the positives and the issues that arise from the list’s return.
Why the Return of the Bona Vacantia List Is Positive
First and foremost, the availability of the Bona Vacantia list restores access to a vital resource. For many genealogists and probate professionals, the list serves as a starting point for identifying unclaimed estates and investigating whether rightful heirs can be traced. Its absence created a significant gap in research workflows, delaying cases and limiting opportunities for families to claim inheritances.
The return of the list also signals a commitment to transparency. Following concerns raised by the BBC investigation, the decision to reinstate access suggests that scrutiny and oversight are being taken seriously.
From a practical perspective, having the list back online allows inheritance cases to progress. If the list isn’t published, how would anyone know that an estate was unclaimed? Researchers can once again investigate estates, verify details, and continue building family trees that may lead to legitimate claims. For families who may be unaware that an estate exists, this access is often the first step towards discovering a previously unknown part of their family history.
The Challenges Researchers Still Face
Despite its return, the current version of the Bona Vacantia list presents notable challenges. One of the most significant issues is the level of detail provided. Entries now include limited information, with key details such as full dates of birth, precise places of birth, or comprehensive personal identifiers omitted.
For genealogical research, these details are critical. Without them, distinguishing between individuals with common names becomes considerably more difficult. Researchers may need to rely on additional records, increasing the time, cost, and complexity of investigations. In some cases, the lack of detail may prevent a potential link from being identified at all.
This reduction in available information can also increase the risk of errors. When records are less specific, there is a greater chance of pursuing incorrect lines of enquiry, which can lead to frustration for families and inefficiencies for professionals working on their behalf.
Additionally, while the list is back online, uncertainty remains around whether further changes or restrictions may be introduced. For those working in probate genealogy, consistency and reliability of access are essential. Ongoing changes can make long-term planning and case management more challenging.
Balancing Safeguards With Accessibility
It is important to acknowledge that some of these limitations may have been introduced as part of efforts to strengthen safeguards and prevent abuse. Protecting estates from fraud and ensuring ethical practice must, of course, remain a priority. However, there is a balance to be struck between safeguarding information and providing sufficient detail to allow legitimate research to take place.
At Family Wise, we support measures that improve the integrity of the probate system, but we also recognise the practical realities faced by genealogists and families. Clear guidance, consistent data standards, and transparent communication around changes to the list would greatly benefit all parties involved.
Our Ongoing Commitment
The return of the Bona Vacantia list is a positive step forward, but it should be viewed as part of an ongoing process rather than a final resolution. As scrutiny continues, we hope to see further improvements that enhance both security and usability.
Family Wise remains committed to ethical practice, transparency, and supporting families in uncovering their rightful inheritance. We will continue to monitor developments surrounding the Bona Vacantia list and share updates and guidance as they arise.
If you have questions about unclaimed estates or need support with probate genealogy research, our team is here to help. Get in contact today.
