If your parents' home will remain vacant until it is sold, it's crucial to review the current home insurance policy and ensure the property is secured. A vacant home faces increased risks, such as break-ins and vandalism, and most standard insurance policies will not cover this damage unless you have a vacant home insurance policy in place.

Review the Home Insurance Policy

If your parents had a homeowners insurance policy, contact the insurance provider immediately. You will need to inform them of your parents' passing and inquire about switching to a vacant home insurance policy. These policies offer protection tailored to the unique risks of an unoccupied house, ensuring you are covered while the property remains on the market.

Secure the Property

While you are waiting for the home to sell, taking additional steps to safeguard it from potential threats is a good idea. Here are several actions to consider:

  • Set Aside Important Documents: Locate and secure any essential financial and legal paperwork, such as asset statements, wills, or life insurance policies. These documents will likely be needed to settle your parents' estate and keeping them safe is vital.
  • Lock Away Valuables: Work with the other heirs to identify any valuables within the home. Secure these items in a safe location, and document everything to avoid potential disputes. This transparency helps ensure that all parties are informed of what is being safeguarded.
  • Regularly Pick Up Mail: An overflowing mailbox signals to thieves that the home is vacant. Regularly collect the mail, or, if that is not feasible, use the post office’s mail hold service or have it forwarded to your address.
  • Change the Locks: Over the years, neighbors, service providers, or family friends may have obtained keys to the house. Even though most likely pose no threat, it is wise to change the locks to limit access while the home is unoccupied. This way, if anything goes missing or gets damaged, you will have better control over who had access to the property.
  • Ensure Doors and Windows Are Locked: Unlocked doors or windows can easily invite trespassers. Double-check all entry points, and for extra security, place dowel rods in window and sliding door tracks to prevent them from being opened from the outside.
  • Install a Security Camera: If you are unable to visit the house frequently, setting up a security camera or video doorbell that allows you to monitor the property remotely. With motion detection and recording capabilities, you will be notified of any unexpected activity. Keep in mind that you will need to maintain internet service to access live feeds and alerts.

In Conclusion

Securing your parents’ home and ensuring proper insurance coverage are essential steps in safeguarding the property until it sells. Taking these precautions helps protect the home from potential risks and provides peace of mind during the estate settlement process. When you are ready to begin the selling process, reach out to Scott and the Smolen Team for expert guidance. They can help navigate the complexities of selling an inherited home, ensuring a smooth and successful transaction.