Site coordination
Keys, alarms and site access during a vacant-property cleanout
By Anchor Demolition Scarborough · Updated
Anchor work-library image showing general scope. It is not an attributed project for this guide.
How should access be handed over when the owner will not remain at the property?
Identify authorised areas, exchange access details appropriately and agree who receives the keys and access record after the visit.
Name the person granting access
Identify the authorised property contact and the person meeting the crew. Clarify which rooms are included, which stay locked and whether anyone else will be present. Possession of a key does not resolve a dispute about contents or authorise removal from every area of a building.
Keep credentials out of public enquiries
Do not put alarm codes, lockbox combinations or personal security details into photographs or the general project description. Ask the project contact how access information should be exchanged for the agreed visit. Provide only what is necessary for the authorised area and period, using the owner's established process.
Agree the arrival and departure checks
Record who opens the property, who confirms the crew has arrived and who receives the keys afterwards. Discuss alarms, gates and doors with the responsible contact before the visit. Do not assume the removal crew is providing property security, alarm maintenance or ongoing supervision after it leaves.
Handle an unavailable contact explicitly
If the authorised person cannot be reached or a key does not open the agreed area, keep that area pending. Avoid substituting informal instructions from someone whose authority is unclear. A simple handback record can list the areas attended, keys returned and access issue referred to the owner. It supports the cleanout without claiming the property has been inspected or secured for every purpose.
Details to bring to the discussion
Use the points below to explain the unresolved decisions when you contact the relevant service.
- Authorised access contact
- Areas permitted and excluded
- Credential-sharing method
- Arrival/departure responsibility
- Key return and unresolved access notes
Continue planning
Check requirements for your property
For requirements discussed in this guide, consult the applicable municipality and current primary sources before arranging work.