Vacant Property Security and Condition Inspection Checklist
Vacant properties are vulnerable to vandalism, unauthorized entry, weather damage, and code violations. This weekly inspection checklist helps property managers and owners maintain security and protect their investment while minimizing insurance and liability risks.
- Industry: Real Estate & Property Management
- Frequency: Weekly
- Estimated Time: 20-25 minutes
- Role: Property Manager / Security Inspector
- Total Items: 32
- Compliance: ICC International Property Maintenance Code Section 301, Local Municipal Vacant Property Registration Ordinances, State Vacant Property Insurance Requirements, HUD Vacant Property Maintenance Requirements for REO Properties
Entry Points and Security
Verify all entry points are secured against unauthorized access.
- All exterior doors locked and deadbolts engaged?
- All windows locked or secured - no broken glass?
- No evidence of unauthorized entry (forced entry, broken locks, changed locks)?
- All boarding or security coverings intact if installed?
- No Trespassing signs posted and visible?
- Security cameras or alarm system operational?
Vandalism and Unauthorized Occupancy
Check for vandalism and squatting activity.
- No new graffiti, broken windows, or property vandalism?
- No evidence of unauthorized occupants (personal items, sleeping materials, fire pits)?
- No evidence of drug activity or illegal use?
- Mailbox cleared to prevent evidence of vacancy?
- Any new vandalism reported to police and insurance?
Weather and Structural Integrity
Verify property is weather-tight and structurally sound.
- No evidence of new roof leaks or water infiltration?
- No new water staining, pooling, or moisture damage visible?
- Foundation and walls free of new cracks or structural concerns?
- No storm damage since last inspection?
- Gutters, downspouts, and drainage clear and functioning?
Utilities and Winterization
Verify utility status and freeze protection.
- Water shut off at main valve or winterized per season?
- Exposed pipes insulated for freeze protection?
- Minimum heat maintained if required by insurance or climate?
- Electric and gas status appropriate for vacant property?
- Utility meter readings documented?
Exterior and Municipal Compliance
Maintain exterior to avoid code violations.
- Grass, weeds, and vegetation maintained to comply with municipal code?
- No accumulation of trash, debris, or abandoned vehicles?
- No outstanding municipal code violation notices?
- Swimming pool secured and maintained if present?
- Vacant property registered with municipality if required by local ordinance?
Pest and Mold Prevention
Inspect for pest and mold risks in vacant property.
- No evidence of rodents, insects, or pest infestation?
- No standing water in basement, crawlspace, or interior?
- Ventilation adequate to prevent moisture buildup and mold?
- No visible mold growth on walls, ceilings, or surfaces?
- Preventive pest control service active for vacant property?
- Weekly inspection photos taken for documentation?
Related Real Estate Property Checklists
- Annual Comprehensive Property Inspection Checklist
- Foreclosure and REO Property Condition Assessment Checklist
- Lease Renewal Property Assessment Checklist
- Commercial Property Tenant Space Inspection Checklist
- HOA Community Common Area and Facilities Inspection Checklist
- Property Damage Insurance Claim Inspection Checklist
- HVAC Seasonal Readiness and Preventive Maintenance Checklist
- Roof and Exterior Building Envelope Inspection Checklist
Related Property Inspection Checklists
- Move-In Property Condition Inspection Checklist - FREE Download
- Move-Out Property Condition and Damage Assessment Checklist - FREE Download
- Monthly Rental Property Inspection Checklist - FREE Download
- Annual Comprehensive Property Inspection Checklist - FREE Download
- Foreclosure and REO Property Condition Assessment Checklist - FREE Download
- Lease Renewal Property Assessment Checklist - FREE Download
- Commercial Property Tenant Space Inspection Checklist - FREE Download
- HOA Community Common Area and Facilities Inspection Checklist - FREE Download
- Property Damage Insurance Claim Inspection Checklist - FREE Download
Why Use This Vacant Property Security and Condition Inspection Checklist?
This vacant property security and condition inspection checklist helps real estate & property management teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for property manager / security inspector professionals, this checklist covers 32 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: weekly.
Ensures compliance with ICC International Property Maintenance Code Section 301, Local Municipal Vacant Property Registration Ordinances, State Vacant Property Insurance Requirements, HUD Vacant Property Maintenance Requirements for REO Properties. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Vacant Property Security and Condition Inspection Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 32 inspection items across 6 sections: Entry Points and Security, Vandalism and Unauthorized Occupancy, Weather and Structural Integrity, Utilities and Winterization, Exterior and Municipal Compliance, Pest and Mold Prevention. It is designed for real estate & property management operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed weekly. Each completion takes approximately 20-25 minutes.
Who should use this Vacant Property Security and Condition Inspection Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Property Manager / Security Inspector professionals in the real estate & property management industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.