Vacant and Delinquent: Best Practices for Securing a Property the Right Way
A vacant and delinquent property is more than just an empty house—it’s a potential liability. From squatters to vandalism, weather damage to code violations, an unsecured property can become a costly nightmare for mortgage servicers and default servicing companies.
At Reliance Property Services, we specialize in securing and maintaining vacant properties to protect assets, minimize risks, and ensure compliance. Here’s how you can secure a property effectively while preserving its value.
Step 1: Fast Action = Lower Risk
When a property becomes delinquent and unoccupied, time is your worst enemy. The longer a home sits unsecured, the higher the risk of break-ins, theft, or property deterioration. Acting quickly to assess and secure the site is crucial.
🔹 Best Practice: Partner with a nationwide property services provider that can quickly dispatch field crews to assess occupancy, board up windows, and change locks before issues arise.
Step 2: Lock It Down (But the Right Way)
Simply locking the front door isn’t enough. Professional securing services ensure that every entry point—doors, windows, and garages—is properly reinforced.
🔹 Best Practices for Property Lockdown:
✔ Rekey & Secure All Entry Points – Use industry-standard locksets and deadbolts for proper access control.
✔ Board-Up Services – In high-risk areas, reinforce vulnerable windows and doors with board-ups to prevent unauthorized access.
✔ Garage & Outbuilding Security – Detached garages, sheds, and side doors are often overlooked but need the same level of protection.
At Reliance Property Services, our teams ensure properties are fully secured using proven industry methods that align with HUD, GSE and regulatory guidelines.
Step 3: Eyes on the Property – Ongoing Inspections
Vacant properties must be monitored regularly to prevent unexpected issues like vandalism, flooding, HVAC failures, or unauthorized occupants. A comprehensive inspection strategy keeps mortgage servicers and investors informed about property conditions.
🔹 Key Inspection Services:
✅ Occupancy Checks – Ensure the property is still vacant and report unauthorized occupants.
✅ Exterior Condition Reports – Identify maintenance needs before they turn into costly repairs.
✅ Hazard Identification – Detect structural issues, broken windows, or environmental hazards.
Our field teams conduct recurring inspections to keep you in compliance and proactively manage risks.
Step 4: Climate & Seasonal Protection
Weather can wreak havoc on vacant properties, especially in regions with extreme temperatures. Preventative seasonal maintenance is critical to avoiding costly damage.
🔹 Best Practices for Weatherproofing:
✔ Winterization Services – Shut off water, drain pipes, and protect plumbing systems to prevent freezing.
✔ HVAC & Utility Checks – Ensure heating and cooling systems are properly maintained.
✔ Storm Protection – Secure loose materials, clear gutters, and reinforce structural weak points before seasonal storms.
Step 5: Curb Appeal Matters – Even for Vacant Homes
A neglected exterior signals vacancy and invites trouble. Keeping the property maintained deters trespassers and helps comply with local ordinances.
🔹 Essential Property Maintenance Services:
✔ Lawn & Landscape Maintenance – Routine lawn care keeps the property looking occupied.
✔ Debris & Trash Removal – Remove illegal dumping and hazardous materials.
✔ Snow & Ice Removal – Avoid liability issues in winter months.
Partner with the Right Property Services Provider
Securing and maintaining a vacant, delinquent property isn’t just about locking the doors—it’s about asset protection. Mortgage servicers and default servicing companies need a reliable, nationwide partner that understands the complexities of preserving distressed properties.
At Reliance Property Services, we provide coast-to-coast property preservation, security, and maintenance solutions to protect assets and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
For more tips on maintaining your properties, visit our blog at Reliance Property Services, where we offer expert advice tailored to property owners, investors and property managers.