What happens if there is more than one executor?
Last reviewed October 2026
A will can name several executors. In England and Wales up to four can be named on the grant of probate. They are expected to act together, and decisions such as selling property usually need all the proving executors to agree and sign. Executors who do not want to be involved can step back by renouncing, if they have not yet dealt with the estate, or by having 'power reserved', which lets them join later. One executor usually applies on behalf of the others, who are told about the application.
Your options if you are one of several executors
Each named executor chooses one of three routes.
- Apply and act, named on the grant
- Have power reserved, stepping back for now with the option to act later
- Renounce, giving up the role permanently, only before dealing with the estate
When executors disagree
Talk it through first and write down decisions. Mediation is often quicker and cheaper than court. As a last resort, the court can remove or replace an executor.
Frequently asked questions
Do all executors need to sign the probate application?
No. One executor can apply, but they must say what each other named executor is doing, for example having power reserved.
What if there are five executors?
Only four can be named on a grant in England and Wales. The others can have power reserved.
Can one executor act alone?
For many everyday tasks, yes. For selling land and signing transfers, all the executors on the grant usually need to sign.
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