Making a Will in Coquitlam, British Columbia

Coquitlam, with about 148,000 residents, is a fast-growing Tri-Cities hub. With rising property values, even straightforward Coquitlam estates can produce meaningful probate fees.

What a valid will requires in Coquitlam

BC's Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA) governs every will made in Coquitlam. A standard will must be in writing, signed at the end by you (or by another person at your direction in your presence), and witnessed by two adults present together. You must be 16 and have testamentary capacity. BC is one of the few provinces that recognizes fully electronic wills under WESA s.35.1 — but they still need two witnesses present by video link or in person. Holograph wills are not valid in BC.

Probate and cost in Coquitlam

Coquitlam estates are probated through the BC Supreme Court registry serving the region. BC's probate fee is roughly 0.6% on the first $25,000–$50,000 and 1.4% above, plus a $200 filing fee — about $13,650 on a $1,000,000 estate. Naming beneficiaries on RRSPs, TFSAs, and life insurance, plus joint tenancy where appropriate, can meaningfully reduce what passes through probate.

If you die without a will in Coquitlam

BC's WESA intestacy formula gives a spouse the first $300,000 (or $150,000 if children are not also the spouse's) plus a share of the rest. Common-law partners who lived with you for at least two years count as a spouse under WESA — but the formula still rarely matches what most Coquitlam couples would actually want. A will is the only way to be specific.

Getting started

For a simple estate, a reputable British Columbia online will signed with two witnesses (or, in Quebec, a notarial will) is often enough; for blended families, businesses, or larger estates, see a Coquitlam estate lawyer. Pair your will with Powers of Attorney for Property and Personal Care.

Frequently asked questions

Are electronic wills legal in Coquitlam? Yes — BC recognizes fully electronic wills under WESA, signed and witnessed by video. How much is probate in Coquitlam? Roughly 1.4% above $50,000 — about $13,650 on a $1M estate, plus a $200 filing fee. Do common-law partners inherit in Coquitlam? Yes, after living together for at least two years under WESA.

Not legal advice. General information about BC law as of 2026. Confirm specifics with a Coquitlam estate lawyer.