After a death, it is important to know whether there is a will. The will can determine who the heirs are, whether an executor has been appointed and which wishes the deceased recorded.
The Central Wills Register
In the Netherlands, you can ask the Central Wills Register whether someone made a will. The register states whether a will exists, when it was made and at which notary. It does not show the contents of the will.
If a will exists, a notary can request and assess it. The notary determines who is entitled to receive information about its contents.
Why early checking matters
Do not assume that old family arrangements or verbal wishes are enough. A will can change who may act and who inherits. Checking early prevents work from being done from the wrong starting point.
The Inheritance Guide helps include this check in the first steps after death and helps you understand which follow-up questions to ask the notary.