When someone passes away, their home and belongings can quickly become vulnerable. Whether it is a house, condo, or apartment, taking calm, thoughtful steps to secure the property protects what matters and avoids future complications. You do not need to do everything in one day, but acting early brings peace of mind.
Why It Matters
An unattended home can attract risks like break-ins, weather damage, frozen pipes, spoiled food, or lost valuables. Families are often surprised by how quickly small problems become big ones. By securing the space early, you protect both sentimental and practical assets.
First Things to Do
- Lock all doors and windows. If you are not sure who has keys, consider changing the locks.
- Collect spare keys. Check for keys given to neighbors, cleaners, caregivers, or friends.
- Secure vehicles. Lock and remove valuables. If the car will not be used soon, consider storing it in a garage or with family.
- Refrigerator and trash. Dispose of perishable food and take out all trash to prevent odors or pests.
- Mail and packages. Redirect mail or place a hold at the post office. Packages piling up can signal that a home is vacant. For help, visit the official USPS site: USPS Hold Mail Service (https://www.usps.com/manage/hold-mail.htm) or USPS Forward Mail (https://www.usps.com/manage/forward.htm).
Winterizing if Temperatures May Drop
If the home is in a cold region or it is fall/winter, you will want to take these extra steps:
- Set heat to at least 55°F. This helps prevent frozen pipes even if no one is living there.
- Shut off water at the main valve. If possible, drain pipes and appliances like the washing machine and dishwasher.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks. This allows warmer air to circulate around pipes.
- Check gutters and downspouts. Make sure they are clear so melting snow or ice can drain properly.
- Look for any broken windows or drafts. Seal them temporarily to keep out cold air and moisture.
For more winterizing tips, check reliable sources like the American Red Cross: Red Cross Winter Storm Safety (https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/winter-storm.html).
Protecting Personal Items
- Take valuables to a secure location. This may include jewelry, cash, documents, or anything sentimental.
- Create a basic inventory. Use your phone to take photos of rooms and items. This helps later during probate or when dividing belongings.
- Secure documents. Find and safeguard any will, deed, financial statements, or legal papers.
Notify Key People
Let the landlord (if renting), neighbors, or building management know that the person has passed and the home may be unoccupied. Trusted neighbors can help watch for any unusual activity or issues.
Final Thoughts
Securing the home after a death is not just about locking doors. It is about making sure the property is safe, personal items are preserved, and problems are prevented. If you are unsure what to do, consider asking a local attorney, property manager, or experienced family friend to walk you through it.
Taking a calm, step-by-step approach can protect the estate and give you one less thing to worry about.
