Can a caveat be renewed indefinitely?

It can be renewed in six-month blocks, but once warned off, the caveator must justify their interest or lose it.

Forms · 5 min read

Form PA8A: entering and removing a caveat

PA8A stops a grant being issued while a concern is investigated. It is deliberately simple to enter, and considerably harder to remove.

Written and reviewed by Ramani Gill, Founder & CEO — Solicitor, TEP, BA, LLM. Last reviewed 2026-08-19.

The basics

Point	Detail
Form	PA8A, online or by post
Fee	£3 at the time of writing
Duration	Six months, renewable
Effect	No grant can issue while it stands

When it is appropriate

You believe the will is invalid
You question the applicant's entitlement to a grant
You need time to investigate concerns about the deceased's capacity
You believe a later will exists

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Warning off a caveat

The applicant issues a warning through the registry
The caveator has eight days to enter an appearance setting out their contrary interest
If they do not, the caveat can be removed and the application proceeds
If they do, the matter becomes contentious and moves towards court

Not a negotiating tactic

Entering a caveat without a proper interest can result in a costs order. If the real complaint is about how the estate will be divided rather than the validity of the will, a caveat is usually the wrong tool.

GOV.UK — Form PA8A

Common questions

Can a caveat be renewed indefinitely?: It can be renewed in six-month blocks, but once warned off, the caveator must justify their interest or lose it.

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