Waiting on Probate? Here’s How to Protect the Home in the Meantime
If a loved one has passed away and their home is going through probate, you may be wondering: what happens to the house while you wait?
Whether probate takes a few months or over a year, one thing is clear—the property can’t go ignored. And in Florida’s climate, an unattended home can become a serious liability fast.
Here’s how to keep the home protected, maintained, and secure during the probate process.
Why Probate Takes Time—and What That Means for the Property
Probate is the legal process that confirms a will and authorizes someone (usually an executor or personal representative) to manage the estate. If the house is part of that estate, you usually can’t sell it—or even make major decisions—until probate is complete.
In the meantime, the home may sit:
Unoccupied
Uninsured or under-insured
Vulnerable to damage, decay, or break-ins
This waiting period can stretch on for months, especially in St. Johns County, Duval County, and across Northeast Florida. That’s why families need a plan for the property during this legal limbo.
Risks of Leaving the Home Vacant During Probate
Even well-maintained homes can quickly decline when no one’s watching. Some of the most common risks include:
Undetected water leaks or mold
Storm damage during hurricane season
HVAC system failure in extreme heat
Rodents or pest infestations
Overgrown landscaping that attracts attention
Mail or flyers piling up—signaling vacancy
Vandalism or unauthorized entry
Insurance companies may also have rules about how long a home can be vacant before coverage is reduced or denied.
What You Can (and Should) Do Right Away
While you may not have legal authority to sell or renovate the home during probate, you are still responsible for protecting and preserving it.
Key steps include:
Keeping utilities active (especially electric and HVAC)
Maintaining the yard and exterior appearance
Ensuring mail and deliveries don’t pile up
Regularly checking the home for damage or security issues
Many families can’t do this themselves—especially if they live out of town or are overwhelmed with estate matters. That’s where Home Watch services come in.
How Home Watch Helps Families Through Probate
At Ponte Vedra Home Watch, we provide professional, scheduled property visits designed to catch problems early, document the home’s condition, and keep the property in good shape for when probate concludes.
Our services include:
Interior and exterior inspections
HVAC and appliance checks
Leak detection and mold watch
Pest and security checks
Digital reports with photos
Emergency response if issues arise
We work closely with family members—and estate attorneys when needed—to offer reliable, local oversight in Ponte Vedra Beach, Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and surrounding areas.
Peace of Mind Until the Legal Process is Over
You may not be able to act on the property right now, but that doesn’t mean you’re powerless. With the right oversight, you can protect your loved one’s home, avoid costly repairs, and ensure it’s ready for whatever comes next—whether that’s a sale, rental, or transfer to a family member.
Need help protecting a home while you wait on probate?
Contact us today or call 904-855-7933 to schedule a consultation and learn how our trusted Home Watch services can help you navigate this difficult time.
