Check an empty Boise house before you decide what it is worth doing

An empty house in Boise is first a building. This page is a walk-through list. It is not an inspection report, a winterization manual, or a finding that anything has failed.

Access

• Who has keys, garage codes, or a lockbox.
• Whether you can get in this week.
• Whether a neighbor or relative has been asked to look.

If you cannot get in, write that down. A sale conversation that starts with “I have not seen it” is a conversation about access, not about price.

Intact

On a visit you control, look for open windows, a door that no longer latches, obvious water, or a smell you cannot explain. Photograph what you see. This site will not interpret the photos.

Weather and vandalism are reasons to visit, not reasons for a website to invent a crime report.

Utilities

Heat, water, and power are seasonal questions. If you do not know what is connected, call the utility with the address. Shutoff and freeze risk belong with them and, if needed, a plumber. This page will not tell you to drain the pipes.

Insurance

Ask the carrier how vacancy is treated on the policy you think you have. Only the carrier can say whether coverage is in force. Creative Home Partners does not sell insurance.

When the building is accounted for, move to holding-cost categories or the checklist tool. If you already know you want a buyer conversation, you can request one. Bring the address or cross streets. Do not upload alarm codes in the form.

Last reviewed: August 30, 2026