Guide
For landlords and property managers in Lexington
A tenant’s death or a crime in a unit leaves you with a property to restore and a family to treat kindly.
The first day
- Let police and the coroner finish. Do not enter the unit to clean or remove items until it is released.
- Find out who the next of kin or personal representative is; they decide about belongings.
- Close off the unit and, where possible, any shared air or vents to neighbouring units.
- Tell your insurer before cleanup starts.
- Keep a written record of who entered the unit and when.
Belongings and the family
Personal property usually belongs to the estate. Before a cleanup company removes contaminated items, agree with the family or representative what will be kept, what will be photographed and what will be disposed of. A good company will set aside papers, photographs and valuables.
Neighbouring tenants
Odor and activity may be noticed next door. You do not have to share details. A short note saying that cleaning work is under way, and how long it is expected to last, is usually enough.
Getting it done
Call this number to be connected with an independent cleanup company that covers the property’s ZIP code. Ask for an itemized invoice, which insurers and, after a crime, the state victim fund will need.