Finding The Bomb Shelter

This small, cold-war era bungalow had been occupied by an elderly woman who had become estranged from her family. Like many houses from that era, the house was efficiently compact, the yard was deep and wide and accommodated a ‘barn-like’ garage.

At the time of her passing the the yard was almost impassible. It was so overgrown and filled with debris, it was difficult to clearly define the actual property lines. The Realtor recognized that this property was in a very desirable location, so she wanted the property cleared, and all the trees trimmed back to show the full redevelopment  potential.  

During the yard clearing process DBD Estate Services team members found the entrance to a 1950-era bomb shelter behind the garage. Review of the garage revealed deep structural cracks in the floor, which the bomb shelter was beneath. Because of this, it was deemed unsafe to enter, and the bomb shelter entrance was secured. 

The decedent hoarded a massive collection of plastic containers, many of which were collected into black trash bags and lined the back and side of the house. Rooms inside the house were filled with them.

There were several piles of cigarette butts and ash that were as tall as the arm of the recliner they were next to. Due to that, and other contaminants in the house, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) was required for DBD personnel working inside the house. 

The heir to the property had requested several small heirloom pieces of furniture, some personal effects, and a specific set of documents. The DBD team located the documents and specified items.

The landscaping was completed to the approval of the Realtor, and the property was sold.