Protecting the Estate Property

Protection becomes an ongoing responsibility

Securing the property is the first step. Protecting it means creating a routine for checking on the home, documenting its condition, managing access, and making sure basic maintenance continues while the estate process moves forward.

Visit the property regularly

A home that appears neglected can attract problems. Regular visits allow you to notice leaks, odors, mail buildup, storm damage, heating or cooling issues, and signs that someone may have entered the property.

• Walk through the interior of the home.
• Check ceilings, walls, floors, and basements for water issues.
• Confirm heat, air conditioning, and utilities are functioning as expected.
• Look for signs of pests, mold, or unusual odors.
• Review the exterior, driveway, mailbox, and yard.

Control access carefully

One of the most common sources of confusion is who has keys, garage remotes, alarm codes, or permission to enter. Executors should be thoughtful about access, especially when family members, contractors, neighbors, or service providers are involved.

• Make a list of known keys, codes, and access points.
• Consider whether locks or codes should be changed.
• Avoid casual access without clear communication.
• Document who enters the property and why.

Keep the home looking cared for

Basic appearance matters. Lawn care, snow removal, mail collection, lighting, and general upkeep can reduce the chance that the property appears vacant or abandoned.

Keep a simple property log

You do not need a complicated system. A notebook, spreadsheet, or shared document can help track visits, repairs, expenses, conversations, and decisions. This can be especially helpful if beneficiaries later ask what was done and why.

• Date of each visit
• Condition of the property
• Photos or videos taken
• Repairs or maintenance performed
• Expenses paid
• People who accessed the home

Quick Reference

• Visit the property on a regular schedule.
• Control keys, codes, and access.
• Watch for water, weather, pests, and maintenance issues.
• Keep the home from appearing vacant or neglected.
• Document visits, expenses, repairs, and important decisions.
• Ask for professional guidance when insurance, legal authority, or property condition questions arise.

Helpful tip

Think of yourself as the steward of the property while decisions are being made. You may not know yet whether the home will be sold, transferred, or kept in the family, but caring for it now helps preserve options later.