Found an Unlocked Door at an Unoccupied Arizona Home

Finding an unlocked door at an unoccupied home can be unsettling. Two weeks prior everything was secure. What happened in the meantime? This situation raises important questions about security, responsibility, and next steps. This post walks you through a real example.

An unlocked door at an unoccupied home after inspection

Why Finding an Unlocked Door Matters

An unlocked door at an unoccupied home is more than just an inconvenience. It can:

• Compromise security: The home becomes vulnerable to theft, vandalism, or unauthorized entry.

• Void insurance coverage: Some insurance policies require homes to be secured; an unlocked door might affect claims.

• Create liability issues: If someone enters and gets injured, the homeowner could face legal issues.

• Signal poor management: It reflects badly on the home’s caretakers or contractors.

  
  

Understanding these risks helps you appreciate why immediate action is necessary.

Steps Taken to Address the Unlocked Door

When the Home Watch Professional discovered the unlocked door at the unoccupied home, they followed these steps:

1. Announced themselves and called out to see if anyone was in the home
   

2. Walked throughout entire home, top to bottom, to ensure that everything was ok. Did not see signs of unauthorized entry

   
   

3. Documented the situation

   Took photos of the unlocked door and included in the home watch report

   
   

4. Notified the home owners

   Informed them about the situation and provided details and evidence

   
   

5. Reviewed recent activity

   Identified via cameras who had access recently. The technicians who installed blinds were the last known visitors.

   
   

6. Requested follow-up inspections after vendor visits.

   Going forward, the home owner requested that their Home Watch Professional come by the home after vendor services are performed to confirm that the house is locked and everything is intact.

   
   

How to Prevent Doors Being Left Unlocked in the Future

Prevention is key to avoiding security risks. Here are practical tips:

• Clear communication with contractors/vendors

Before work begins, remind technicians to lock all doors and windows when they leave.

• Use checklists

Create a checklist for contractors and inspectors to confirm all entry points are secured.

• Install apps, smart locks, or alarms

Apps can unlock and lock doors and alert you if doors are left open or unlocked.

• Schedule recurring home watch inspections or an impromptu after vendors complete services. Leaving a door unlocked is often non-intentional; however, taking precautions is a good measure.

• Label keys and access points

Keep track of who has keys and when they access the property. If codes are given to contractors/vendors, provide a unique code to each.

Handling Liability and Insurance Concerns

When a door is left unlocked by contractors or technicians, liability can become complicated. Here’s what to consider:

• Contractor agreements

Review contracts to see if they include responsibility for securing the property.

• Insurance coverage

Check if your insurance covers losses due to negligence by third parties.

• Document all communications

Keep records of emails, calls, and reports related to the incident.

• Consult legal advice if needed

For significant losses or disputes, professional guidance can help.

Summary

Finding an unlocked door at an unoccupied home is a serious matter that requires prompt attention. Secure the property, document the situation, notify relevant parties, and investigate any signs of unauthorized entry. Prevention through communication, recurring home watch inspections, checklists, and technology can reduce future risks.