Property Securing Best Practices: Locks, Boarding, and Access Control for Vacant Properties

Securing is the first preservation action on any vacant property, and it's the most important. An unsecured property is an open invitation for vandalism, theft, squatters, and liability claims. Every subsequent preservation investment — cleaning, lawn maintenance, repairs — is at risk if the property isn't properly secured first. Despite this, securing is also one of the most commonly under-executed preservation tasks, with crews doing the minimum rather than the thorough job that actually prevents problems.

Why Initial Securing Must Be Fast

The risk window on a newly vacant property starts immediately. Local opportunists, scrappers, and squatters often know when a property becomes vacant before the preservation vendor does — especially in areas with high foreclosure activity. Industry data consistently shows that properties secured within 24-48 hours of vacancy have dramatically lower vandalism and break-in rates than properties secured after 5-7 days.

Lock Changes and Key Management

• Change all exterior locks immediately — deadbolts, knob locks, and any padlocks on gates or outbuildings
• Install a lockbox (typically combination or key-type) on the front door for authorized access
• Record all lock codes and lockbox combinations in a secure system — never leave default codes unchanged
• Re-key rather than replace when the existing hardware is in good condition — it's faster and cheaper
• Verify that all lock changes are documented with before-and-after photos showing the new hardware
• Check sliding doors — many require a security bar or pin in addition to the standard lock

Window and Opening Boarding

Not every vacant property needs boarding — but every property with broken or missing windows does. Boarding standards vary by servicer and municipality, but the principle is consistent: any opening that allows unauthorized access or weather intrusion must be secured.

• Use exterior-grade plywood (minimum 1/2 inch) for window and door boarding
• Cut boards to fit flush with the frame — oversized boards look sloppy and draw attention to vacancy
• Secure boards with screws, not nails — screws are harder to remove and hold better over time
• Paint boards to match the exterior if the property is in a visible location or HOA community
• Check local ordinances — some municipalities prohibit plywood boarding and require polycarbonate or other transparent materials
• Re-inspect boarding at every visit — boards can be pried off between inspections

Beyond Locks and Boards: Access Control

Locks and boarding are the baseline. Properties in high-risk areas or with repeated break-in attempts may need additional access control measures. Perimeter fencing with locked gates, motion-activated lighting, security cameras (even non-functional deterrent cameras), and regular patrol visits all contribute to a secured property.

Common Securing Failures

• Changing the front door lock but leaving the back door, garage, or side entry unsecured
• Failing to secure basement windows, crawlspace access, or pet doors
• Using low-quality lock hardware that can be defeated with basic tools
• Not checking the property for existing unauthorized occupancy before securing (safety risk and legal issue)
• Installing a lockbox with the default code and never changing it
• Not re-verifying securing at subsequent inspection visits