Probate Property Inspections: What Should Be Checked and How Often?
One of the biggest responsibilities for many executors is looking after an empty property during probate.
Whether the property will eventually be sold, transferred to a beneficiary or retained by the family, it remains the executor's responsibility to protect it until the estate has been fully administered.
Regular probate property inspections are one of the simplest ways to safeguard the property, minimise financial losses and comply with insurance conditions.
At Harrisons Property Solutions, we regularly support executors, solicitors and families with vacant property inspections, maintenance and ongoing property management as part of our wider EstateCare service.
How often should a probate property be inspected?
Most insurers require unoccupied properties to be inspected every 7 to 14 days, although requirements vary between policies.
If inspections aren't carried out, insurers may refuse claims relating to theft, vandalism, escape of water or other damage.
As a general guide:
- Every 7 days for higher-risk properties.
- Every 14 days for most vacant probate properties.
- More frequently following severe weather or if maintenance issues have been identified.
If you're unsure what your insurer requires, it's worth checking the policy conditions as early as possible.
If you need someone to carry out inspections on your behalf, our Probate Property Solutions team can arrange scheduled visits and provide photographic reports throughout the estate administration process.
What should be included in a probate property inspection?
Is the property secure?
During every visit, ensure:
- All doors and windows remain locked.
- Alarm systems are operational.
- There are no signs of attempted entry.
- External gates and garages remain secure.
Security issues should be addressed immediately.
Are there any leaks or water damage?
Water damage is one of the most common and costly problems in empty properties.
Check for:
- Leaking pipes
- Burst pipes
- Damp patches
- Ceiling stains
- Boiler leaks
- Overflowing gutters
Early detection can save thousands in repair costs.
Is the property being properly ventilated?
Vacant homes often suffer from condensation.
Look for:
- Mould growth
- Condensation on windows
- Damp smells
- Black spots on walls or ceilings
Where appropriate, ventilating the property during inspections can help reduce moisture build-up.
Are utilities safe?
Inspect:
- Heating systems
- Boiler pressure
- Electricity supply
- Water systems
Depending on the season and insurer requirements, draining water systems may be advisable to reduce the risk of frozen pipes.
Is the exterior being maintained?
External inspections should include:
- Garden maintenance
- Hedges
- Fencing
- Roof condition (where visible)
- Gutters
- Driveways
- Fly tipping
A well-maintained exterior helps deter unwanted attention and preserves the property's appearance.
Has post accumulated?
Uncollected mail is one of the clearest indicators that a property is vacant.
Post should be removed regularly and any important correspondence passed to the executor or solicitor managing the estate.
Are there signs of pests?
Check for evidence of:
- Rodents
- Wasps
- Birds
- Insect infestations
Prompt action helps avoid more extensive damage later.
Why are probate property inspections important?
Regular inspections help executors:
- Meet insurance policy conditions.
- Protect estate assets.
- Reduce repair costs.
- Identify maintenance issues early.
- Keep the property ready for sale.
- Demonstrate they have taken reasonable care of estate assets.
Many executors also choose to combine property inspections with wider estate administration support through EstateCare, allowing one team to coordinate everything from vacant property management and asset searches to genealogy and estate administration.
Harrisons Property Solutions can help
At Harrisons Property Solutions, we provide comprehensive support for vacant probate properties across England and Wales.
Our services include:
- Scheduled property inspections
- Photographic inspection reports
- Key holding
- Property security
- House clearance coordination
- Garden maintenance
- Contractor management
- Property maintenance
- Utility coordination
- Probate property sales, including our 0% seller fee option where appropriate
Our property specialists work alongside the wider Harrisons team, meaning executors can access practical property support as part of a fully coordinated estate administration service.
Contact Bilaal today
If you're responsible for an empty probate property, speak to Bilaal and the Harrisons Property Solutions team about arranging regular inspections and ongoing property management.
Whether you simply need someone to inspect the property every fortnight or require complete support from securing the property through to preparing and coordinating its sale, we're here to help.
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