Property Access, Rekeying and Securing Property

Secure Access with New Locks for Probate Properties

When a property enters probate, one of the first and most critical tasks is gaining and securing access. Vacant homes are prime targets for unauthorized entry, vandalism, or theft, especially if the decedent’s passing has become public knowledge through obituaries or court filings. Existing door locks, unknown, current key-holders, or unsecured entry points like windows or garage doors can leave the property vulnerable, risking the loss of valuable assets and exposing fiduciaries to legal liability. For estate attorneys, ensuring the property is secure is a fundamental part of fulfilling fiduciary duties; however coordinating access and rekeying the property can be a logistical challenge amidst all the other legal complexities of probate. At DBD Estate Services, our Property Access, ReKeying, and Securing Property Service is designed to address these issues, ensuring the property is protected, so you can manage the estate with confidence.

The risks associated with unsecured probate properties are significant. A single break-in can result in the theft of valuable items — jewelry, electronics, or family heirlooms —diminishing the estate’s value and possibly leading to disputes among heirs. Vandalism, such as graffiti or broken windows, can reduce the property’s marketability, while squatters or unauthorized occupants can create legal headaches, requiring costly evictions.

We’ve seen cases where a probate property was easily accessed because the locks hadn’t been changed, resulting in property loss of thousands of dollars; or where a cracked window allowed water damage during a storm, resulting in costly repairs. From a legal perspective, estate attorneys must ensure that the property is protected, as failure to do so, can lead to allegations of fiduciary negligence, especially if heirs believe their inheritance was compromised due to lack of security.

The DBD property evaluation process begins with a comprehensive assessment of the property’s security, working closely with estate attorneys to understand the property’s condition and any known vulnerabilities. We conduct a thorough, photo-enhanced inspection, checking all entry points — doors, windows, garages, and gates — searching for signs of weakness, such as old locks, broken latches, or gaps that could be exploited. We also assess the property’s surroundings, noting factors like poor lighting or overgrown shrubs that could provide cover for intruders. In one case, we assessed a probate property with a back door that wouldn’t lock properly and several windows that could be easily pried open. Our plan addressed these issues, ensuring the property was fully secure before any further work began.

With the assessment complete, DBD coordinates with professional locksmiths to rekey the property, installing new locks on all exterior doors to ensure that only authorized individuals — such as the executor or estate attorney — have access. We use high-quality, tamper-resistant locks to provide maximum security, and we can install additional features like deadbolts or smart locks if desired. Beyond rekeying, we secure other entry points, boarding up broken windows, reinforcing weak doors, and installing security bars or locks on gates as needed. We also address environmental vulnerabilities, such as trimming overgrown vegetation or installing motion-sensor lights to deter intruders. The DBD team manages the entire process, scheduling the locksmiths, overseeing the installations, and inspecting the results to ensure the property is fully protected. We provide a detailed report with photos, costs, and a list of the security measures implemented, giving you a clear record for probate proceedings.

Our service is designed to address the unique needs of probate attorneys, focusing on minimizing liability and protecting the estate’s assets. We understand the legal implications of an unsecured property — a break-in or vandalism can lead to financial losses, disputes among heirs, or lawsuits from neighbors, all of which can delay probate and strain client relationships. Our security measures ensure that the property is protected, providing all the stake-holders peace of mind, knowing the estate’s assets are safe. In one memorable case, we secured a probate property that had been targeted by vandals in the past. Our new locks and reinforced windows prevented further incidents, and the property sold without issue, preserving its value and satisfying the heirs.

We also recognize the emotional weight of this process for heirs, who may feel vulnerable knowing the family home is vacant. The fear of theft or damage can add to their grief, especially if the property holds sentimental value. Our team approaches every project with empathy, ensuring that the security measures we implement provide comfort as well as protection. Upon the Attorney’s request, DBD personnel will work closely with heirs to address any concerns, such as ensuring that a specific entry point is extra secure, while meeting the legal needs of the estate. In cases where heirs are unable to participate, we can act as their proxy, making security decisions with their best interests in mind while keeping relevant parties informed at every step.

At DBD Estate Services, we’re committed to helping estate attorneys navigate the complexities of Probate with ease. Our Property Access, Rekeying, and Securing Property Service ensures that every property is protected from unauthorized access, giving you the confidence to manage the estate without fear of loss or liability. We take pride in our professionalism, our attention to detail, and our commitment to supporting the Probate process. Whether you’re dealing with a small condo, a home with multiple entry points or several properties within the Estate, we have the expertise to secure the property with care and precision.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your next probate case with our expert security services.