Your first pass should protect information and reduce family conflict. It is not the day to fill a truck. Photograph each room, secure sensitive property, and make an inventory of questions before moving large items.
Walk, photograph, and lock
- Confirm the person authorized to manage the property.
- Change or secure access only when that person approves.
- Photograph each room from the doorway before rearranging it.
- Collect mail and secure records, keys, valuables, medicine, and devices.
- Note items already promised, disputed, rented, or owned by someone else.
Create one decision log
Keep the item description, room, decision, responsible person, and pickup deadline in one place. A shared log prevents several relatives from giving different instructions to the crew.
| Status | Meaning | Next action |
|---|---|---|
| Protected | Must stay under family control | Move to a locked room |
| Claimed | Assigned to a person | Add pickup date |
| Evaluate | May need appraisal or another opinion | Keep out of the load |
| Released | Approved for removal | Add to estimate scope |
Schedule hauling after the decisions
Once the released group is stable, send wide photos, bulky-item views, access details, and the property deadline. The removal estimate should not include the protected or unresolved rooms.
When the removal group is ready
Review the companion Inherited Property Cleanout service, then call or text (425) 522-3063 with the rooms, bulky items, access, and deadline.
Safety and records guidance: U.S. EPA household hazardous waste guidance and FTC identity-theft prevention guidance, reviewed October 6, 2026.