Boarding a vacant property is only one part of securing it. Owners should identify every accessible opening, document the building, control authorized access, monitor the site, address utilities and hazards, and plan permanent repairs or code compliance as needed.
Which openings should be reviewed?
Walk the exterior from a safe location and identify broken windows, damaged doors, basement openings, storefront glass, and other obvious access points. Do not enter an unstable building. If the property has fire, structural, electrical, or environmental hazards, use the appropriate professionals before temporary securing begins.
Should every window be boarded automatically?
Not always. The scope should reflect the condition of the property, local requirements, occupancy status, and the owner’s plan. Covering an intact opening may create unnecessary cost or maintenance issues. A focused assessment is better than assuming every opening needs the same treatment.
What should be documented before work?
Take dated photographs, list the openings, note existing damage, and record who has authority to enter the property. Keep the written board-up scope, invoices, and any later inspection notes. This documentation is especially useful when several vendors or property managers are involved over time.
How should access be controlled?
Decide who may enter, which door remains the authorized entry, and how keys or codes are managed. A temporary board should not trap maintenance workers or block required emergency access. If the building will remain vacant, establish a repeat inspection schedule rather than relying on the initial board-up indefinitely.
What should be checked during follow-up inspections?
Look for loose panels, water entry, new damage, attempted access, broken fasteners, roof or gutter problems, and changes around doors or windows. Snow, wind, freeze-thaw cycles, and vandalism can change a temporary condition. Record each inspection so later problems are easier to trace.
Does board-up solve code or nuisance issues?
Not by itself. Municipal requirements can address property maintenance, unsafe structures, exterior appearance, weeds, snow, utilities, or other conditions beyond openings. Owners should confirm applicable rules with the appropriate local authority rather than assuming plywood alone makes the property compliant.
What is the long-term plan?
Decide whether the property will be repaired, sold, renovated, demolished, or returned to occupancy. Temporary securing should support that plan, not replace it. Schedule permanent repairs when possible and remove temporary materials when they are no longer needed.
For service details, see Vacant Property Board-Up. To describe a vacant property in Shoreview or a nearby service area, use Get an Estimate.
Who published this guide?
Shoreview Emergency Board Up Pros publishes this checklist for general education. Property owners remain responsible for monitoring their buildings and following applicable local requirements.