For the Gazette notice, do I need to include Flat number or is block sufficient?

BooBoo77

Hello, I am just adding a death notice to the Gazette, my friend that I'm acting as executor for lived in a smallish block of flats.  Is it ok to just put the number of the block or should I specify the flat number too?  It feels like I'm identifying an empty flat for burglars to go as far as the flat number and any creditor would be able to identify the account from the block number and name presumably?  I don't want to risk not doing it right but I don't want to add to burglary or fraud risk either.  The difference would be between Jo Bloggs of Flat 2, 446 Any Street and Jo Bloggs of 446 Any Street. Thanks

user1977

BooBoo77 said:

It feels like I'm identifying an empty flat for burglars to go as far as the flat number and any creditor would be able to identify the account from the block number and name presumably?  I don't want to risk not doing it right but I don't want to add to burglary or fraud risk either.

I'd be amazed if any burglars are perusing the Gazette, or even if they are, assuming that it means the flat is unoccupied but full of valuables.

But in answer to your question, all you need to do is sufficiently identify the deceased, so the block number should be fine.

Hoenir

BooBoo77 said:

I don't want to risk not doing it right but I don't want to add to burglary or fraud risk either.  

Remove any valuables. 

If the person is deceased and notifications have already been made.  What fraud risk do you envisage ? 

BooBoo77

Thanks both.  I have removed valuables but don't like the idea of highlighting an empty property.  In terms of fraud, I remember my father's FB account being taken over after his death.  Unfortunately my friend and I didn't realise about the possibility of doing a legacy nominee for his FB account to close it or memorialise it, so it's open to being taken over.  I'm no doubt being overly protective.  Thanks again.

la531983

BooBoo77 said:

Thanks both.  I have removed valuables but don't like the idea of highlighting an empty property. 

Just because an address is in the Gazette in the death notices doesnt automatically mean the property is empty, the husband/wife may still be living there, or another relative. Think you are worrying too much.

BooBoo77

Thank you La.  Good points and I'm sure I am worrying too much.  Thanks again all.

user1977

la531983 said:

BooBoo77 said:

Thanks both.  I have removed valuables but don't like the idea of highlighting an empty property. 

Just because an address is in the Gazette in the death notices doesnt automatically mean the property is empty, the husband/wife may still be living there, or another relative.

Or be a rented property with a new tenant already settled in.

People seem fond of these urban myths involving burglars who use highly sophisticated research methods, rather than realising that they're mostly just opportunistic junkies.

DullGreyGuy

Plus many are houses not flats so have to have the full address... never seen any press coverage of police linking burglaries to the Gazette publications. 

Personally would use the full address, wouldn't want to have to deal with a creditor who comes out the woodwork late stating you didnt use the proper address so they're holding you liable.