A promise to leave property after death can be enforced under proprietary estoppel by encouragement only where the evidence establishes that the promise was made on the basis that it was irrevocable, and there is a sufficient link between the promise and the detriment suffered. In claims against deceased estates, corroboration remains practically essential even though not legally required. Where the minimum equity is the cost of alternative accommodation and the claimant was housed at no cost, the equitable compensation may be nil.
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