Probate Knowledge Center

Vacant Homes

Insurance, security, utilities, and protecting an empty estate home.

• How do I protect a vacant probate home?Secure the home, confirm vacant-property insurance, keep utilities on, and check it regularly to prevent damage, theft, and unauthorized occupancy.
• Does insurance cover a vacant inherited home?Many standard policies limit or exclude coverage once a home is vacant. Notify the insurer and get vacant-home coverage while it sits.
• Should I stage a vacant probate home?Light staging often helps an empty home sell faster and for more. The estate can usually treat reasonable staging as a selling expense.