5 Essential Tips to Protect an Unoccupied Property During the Colder Winter Months

Clearing a property after someone has died is a significant undertaking and it’s not uncommon for the process to stretch on for months. If the property will be left unoccupied, taking the right precautions can help avoid issues like damp, mould and damage caused by cold weather. Here are five practical steps you can take to ensure the property remains in good condition.

1. Move Furniture Away from Walls

Cold walls can be a breeding ground for damp, especially in unheated or under-heated properties. Furniture, particularly upholstered pieces, should be pulled at least a couple of feet away from walls to allow air to circulate. It's a simple step but it really does help to prevents moisture build up and reduces the risk of mould forming on both the furniture and the walls behind it. If a property already had problems with damp, then even the best precautions won't solve the issue, so any items that might have value should be removed to protect them.

2. Remove Textiles

Textiles such as towels, bedding, soft furnishings and curtains are highly absorbent and can hold onto moisture in a cold, unoccupied property. Over time, this can lead to unpleasant smells and even mould growth. Removing these items entirely, or at the very least storing them in vacuum-sealed bags, will help protect them and the overall air quality in the home.

3. Maintain a Minimal Level of Heating

While it may seem unnecessary to heat an unoccupied property, a low level of heating can make a huge difference. Set the thermostat to maintain an internal temperature of around 15 degrees Celsius for a couple of hours in the morning and evening. This prevents the chill from setting in, reduces condensation, and protects against frozen pipes during particularly cold spells. If there is any doubt about the efficiency or safety of a heating system in a property, it is best to consult a heating engineer. In some cases they could recommend it might be more appropriate to shut it down altogether. In the case of gas central heating systems this would also mean draining any water out of the pipework to prevent frozen pipes from bursting and causing any flood damage.

4. Use Moisture-Absorbing Dehumidifiers

Electric dehumidifiers can be effective but are often impractical and unsafe for long-term use in an unoccupied property. Instead, place passive dehumidifiers or desiccant packs in key areas like windowsills, bathrooms and other damp-prone spots. These devices draw moisture out of the air and help prevent condensation without requiring electricity. They won't solve the potential problem completey but they certainly help.

5. Remove Paper Documents & Items

Books, magazines, and paperwork are surprisingly vulnerable to moisture. When left in a damp, cold environment, they can quickly become musty, making them unsuitable for donation or sale. By removing these items from the property, you not only preserve their condition but also reduce the risk of damp-related odours and damage spreading to other belongings. Any paperwork that may be relevant in helping to settle an estate or provide information for application of probate is best removed as soon as possible to prevent any deterioration.

Additional Considerations

• Consider The Security of The Property: Do you know who has keys for the property and have they all been retrieved? If there is any doubt over who may have had access to the property or if there has been a key lock box for carers to come and go, it's worth considering changing the locks. Despite the cost involved, the peace of mind may be invaluable in knowing the property is as secure as possible.

  Small valuables like jewellery should be removed for safekeeping, with any beneficiaries informed of their whereabouts.

  
  

• Don't Giveaway The Property is Empty: If the property is in an area with vigilant neighbours who are aware the property is empty, they will undoubtedly help keep an eye on things and notify you or the police of any suspicious activity. If not, it's worth considering having timers on lamps to give the illusion of someone living in the property.

  Make sure mail is redirected and any newspaper or magazine subscriptions are stopped. Nothing says 'empty property' more than a mountain of mail that can be seen from outside.

  
  

• Have a Plan For Property Inspections: Who is going to carry out regular checks? If you aren't local then who is going to undertake them ? If a solicitor is acting as executor then they will often arrange inspections, if not it needs consideration.

  
  

• Document Property Checks: Make a note and take photos each time you or someone else visits the property. This documentation can be crucial for insurance purposes if any issues arise.

  
  

• Understand Insurance Conditions: Many insurance policies for unoccupied properties require specific precautions, such as regular inspections. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these requirements to maintain full coverage. A lot of insurance companies are tightening up on the frequency of visits they stipulate and some may refuse to cover empty properties altogether so please don't assume anything in regards to the insurance.

Someone's home is more than just a building; it’s likely one of their most significant assets. Taking these steps ensures that it remains protected while you complete the clearance process.