The initial secure is the first preservation action performed on a vacant property. It sets the foundation for ongoing maintenance and establishes the baseline condition record. A thorough initial secure prevents unauthorized entry, mitigates liability, and creates the documentation trail that clients and insurers require.
Pre-Arrival Preparation
- Confirm property address and access instructions
- Review work order scope and any special requirements
- Verify lock type and hardware specifications
- Ensure all tools and materials are loaded
- Check for any known hazards or access restrictions
Exterior Assessment
Begin with a full exterior walkthrough before entering the property. Document the front, both sides, and rear with timestamped photos. Note any visible damage, open entry points, graffiti, overgrown vegetation, standing water, or debris. Check the condition of all windows, doors, garages, and outbuildings.
Lock Change and Securing
- Change locks on all accessible entry points (front, rear, side, garage)
- Install lockbox per client specifications
- Board broken or missing windows with exterior-grade plywood
- Secure sliding doors with security bars
- Padlock gates, sheds, and outbuildings
- Verify all entry points are secure before departing
Interior Assessment
After securing entry, conduct a room-by-room interior walkthrough. Document each room including closets, basement, attic, and garage. Note the presence of personal property, debris, hazardous materials, water damage, mold, structural issues, and pest activity.
Utility and Hazard Checks
- Locate and document utility meters (electric, gas, water)
- Check for active leaks or water intrusion
- Note HVAC system type and condition
- Identify any hazardous conditions (mold, asbestos, structural damage)
- Turn off water at the main if freezing conditions exist
- Report any conditions requiring immediate attention
Ethreon field crews follow standardized initial secure protocols with full photo documentation. Contact us for coverage on your vacant properties.
Contact EthreonRelated Services
Ethreon delivers these services with full documentation and compliance reporting:
Frequently Asked Questions
1What does an initial secure include in property preservation?
An initial secure typically includes changing all exterior locks, installing a lockbox, boarding broken or missing windows, securing sliding doors, padlocking gates and outbuildings, and conducting a full interior and exterior assessment with photo documentation.
2How long does an initial secure take?
A standard initial secure on a single-family property generally takes 1 to 3 hours depending on the property's size, condition, and the number of entry points that need securing.
3What type of locks are required for property preservation?
Most servicers require commercial-grade deadbolts on all entry doors, with specific hardware specifications outlined in the work order. Lockbox type and placement are also specified by the client.
4What documentation is required for an initial secure?
Documentation includes timestamped, GPS-tagged photos of every entry point before and after securing, interior room-by-room photos, utility meter readings, and a written report of any hazards or damage found during the assessment.
5What are common mistakes during an initial secure?
Common mistakes include missing secondary entry points like basement or side doors, failing to document pre-existing damage, not checking for active water leaks, and submitting photos without GPS verification or proper timestamps.