What is a Codicil?

Think of your will like your house. If you want a bigger kitchen, putting aside planning permission and whether you have the room, you may build an extension. If you need two extra bedrooms, you could build an extension but moving to a bigger house may be more practical.

A codicil is an extension to a will, an add-on if you like. You may want to change one of your executors or add a small gift for a new grandchild. For minor things like that, a codicil may be the cheapest method. It is still a legal document and still needs signing and witnessing and must be kept with the original will.

But if there is a major amendment, such as the main beneficiary, or many small changes, it’s usually best to write a new will. Although there is no limit to the number of codicils within a will, a particular clause may only be changed by a codicil once.

Find out if your change can be covered by a codicil or whether your will needs to be re-written by contacting Heritage Will Writing on 02380 879243.