After the death of a loved one, their home often becomes a space filled with emotional memories and practical responsibilities. Whether the property will remain in the family, be sold, or left vacant for a time, it’s essential to ensure the home is safe, secure and properly managed.
This detailed house checklist helps bereaved families take practical steps to care for the property in the weeks and months that follow.
Secure the Property
One of the first tasks is ensuring the home is physically safe and protected from unauthorised access or damage.
Steps to take:
- Check and lock all windows and doors
- Collect any spare keys from family, friends, or carers
- Change the locks if key access is uncertain or widespread
- Close and secure garages, sheds, and side entrances
- Install light timers to give the appearance of occupancy
- Consider notifying the local police station if the house will be empty long term
Why this matters: Vacant properties can attract unwanted attention, so early action helps protect against break-ins or vandalism.
Arrange Unoccupied Property Insurance
If the property will remain empty for more than 30 days, the existing home insurance policy may no longer be valid.
Contact the home insurer to:
- Inform them of the death
- Request to switch to an “unoccupied property” or “vacant home” policy
- Ensure cover includes theft, weather-related damage, and liability
Tip: Maintain basic heating in colder months to prevent frozen pipes, and turn off unnecessary appliances at the wall.
Redirect Post
To protect the deceased’s personal information and ensure you don’t miss any vital correspondence, set up a Royal Mail redirection service.
Why it’s important:
- Prevents identity fraud
- Helps you receive important documents (e.g., bills, statements, policy letters)
- Uncovers overlooked services that need cancelling or refunding
You can set up the redirection online or in person at a Post Office branch.
Care for Pets and Plants
If pets are left in the home, act quickly to ensure they are safe and supported.
For pets:
- Arrange temporary care with a family member or friend
- Notify a vet for advice on long-term arrangements or rehoming if needed
For plants:
- Continue watering or rehome them to someone nearby who can maintain them
Why it matters: These small acts can ease the emotional transition while maintaining a respectful environment in the home.
Notify a Trusted Neighbour
Neighbours can be a quiet source of support, especially if the property will be unoccupied.
Let a trusted neighbour know what’s happened and share your contact information.
They can:
- Check on the property occasionally
- Collect post or packages if needed
- Inform you of any unusual activity
Adjust or Cancel Utilities
Contact all utility providers to inform them of the death and request account closure or adjustment:
- Electricity & Gas
- Water provider
- Council tax office
- Broadband, landline and mobile phone
- TV licence and streaming services
Ask for confirmation in writing, and ensure any final credits or refunds are sent to the estate.
Why Choose Country Cousins During This Time?
At Country Cousins, we understand that looking after a loved one’s home can feel like both an emotional and logistical challenge.
Our compassionate team can assist you with:
- Coordinating safe return of care-related equipment
- Signposting to trusted home insurers and legal advisors
- Providing in-home support during transitional periods
- Offering companionship and assistance for those handling arrangements on their own
If you’re unsure where to begin, we’re here to help. Whether you need guidance, practical help or simply someone to talk to, our team is just a phone call away.
Contact Country Cousins today for sensitive, professional support as you navigate the weeks following a loss.
