Executor property checklist

Confirm authority before action

Ask the estate attorney who may enter the property, direct vendors, access records, and make preservation decisions. Keep written instructions when authority is not yet clear.

Protect the home

Once authorized, organize these property checks:

• Confirm doors, windows, gates, keys, remotes, and alarm access
• Notify the property insurer and ask specifically about vacancy requirements
• Keep essential heat, electricity, water, and monitoring active unless an advisor directs otherwise
• Photograph the exterior, each room, and visible damage before work begins
• Arrange mail, landscaping, weather response, and emergency contacts

Create one property record

Keep insurer contacts, vendor invoices, access logs, photographs, repair decisions, and property expenses in a single record the estate team can review.