A practical visit checklist
Outside
- Doors, windows and gates are locked and undamaged.
- No signs of entry or squatters.
- Mail, flyers and packages removed.
- Sprinklers working, with no broken heads flooding the yard.
- Roof and gutters clear after storms.
Inside
- Look and smell for leaks under sinks, around toilets and at the water heater.
- Check ceilings for new stains.
- Confirm the thermostat setting and that the HVAC runs.
- Run each faucet briefly and flush toilets to keep traps full.
- Check the refrigerator, if left on, and the main breaker.
- Look for rodent droppings and insects.
Reducing risk
- Shut off the main water supply, or install an automatic leak detector with a shutoff valve.
- Leave lights on timers.
- Have a neighbor or property manager with a key.
- Keep landscaping maintained, so the house doesn’t look empty.
Bank-owned and estate properties
REO and estate homes have often been vacant for months. Expect utilities to be off, plumbing that has been winterized, deferred maintenance and missing appliances. Arrange for all utilities to be on before the inspection, and allow extra time for a full plumbing check.
Common questions
Does my homeowners insurance cover a vacant house?
Many standard policies restrict coverage for vandalism, glass breakage and water damage after a period of vacancy. Check your policy, tell your insurer, and ask about a vacancy endorsement if the house will be empty for long.
What is a de-winterization?
Bank-owned homes are sometimes winterized by draining the plumbing and adding antifreeze to traps. Before an inspection, the lender's agent must arrange to restore water, and the system should be pressure-tested for leaks.