How to Explore Abandoned Structures

Last Updated: December 14, 2021 References Approved

An abandoned structure is any man made object that is no longer in use. Structures that could fall into this definition include buildings, bridges, bunkers, tunnels, drains, mines, water towers, railroad tracks, farms, wells, or houses. Here are some easy steps to recognize, enter, and get away with when exploring abandoned structures.

Steps

1
Avoid breaking local laws. Trespassing is illegal in many countries and jurisdictions. Private property laws vary from one place to another and you should not assume a legal action in one area is legal in another. At many larger structures, the caretakers will grant permission to view the premises they preserve. If there are signs that say "No Trespassing", don't enter unless you have permission.^{[1]
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Be aware of your actions. Without speaking with a caretaker or owner, you could be perceived as a squatter, vandal, arsonist, or someone looking for salvage. Make your intentions clear to avoid unfounded accusations. Avoid bringing anything unnecessary such as tools to avoid trouble.

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3
Find a site to explore. In most cases, the structures you are looking to explore caught your interest during other activities, rather than by intentional scouting. However, unmentioned structures show their neglect and can be found simply by traveling around your town or city. You can also find structure locations from people with similar interests on internet forums.^{[2]
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Walk the perimeter. What are the possible entrances (or exits, if there is a need to escape)? Windows, unlocked doors, doors that can be opened by force (note laws), rooftops, tunnels, and holes are all possible entry points into abandoned buildings.
5
Decide when to make an entrance. Sometimes it's better to enter during the day for lighting purposes, but nighttime is usually better because you're less likely to be seen. Bring a flashlight and a friend along!^{[3]
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Find the easiest way in. Do you have to hop a barbed-wire fence, or can you squeeze through an opening instead? In many cases, you'll find infiltrating a structure is much easier than it looks. Barbed-wire, high walls, and locked doors are all good deterrents, but in many cases, there is a part of the structure that is much more vulnerable.^{[4]
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Explore! Take pictures; look at old furniture, papers, machinery, or anything that catches your eye.^{[5]
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Leave the structure the same way you found it. You wouldn't want to ruin the experience for future explorers. You also don't want a police report filed if anything is destroyed or stolen.^{[6]
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Community Q&A

Question

What should I do if there is a squatter in the structure I am exploring?

Community Answer

If the squatter isn't bothering you, ignore them and don't bother them. If the squatter appears threatening or attempts to attack you, leave the area immediately.
Question

If the building has a fence for a door but no other fence, can I enter it?

Community Answer

If you can safely enter the area and it is not private property, you may enter through the fenced door.
Question

What should I wear while I am exploring?

Community Answer

Wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and thick shoes in case there is glass or other debris on the ground, jeans, sneakers or boots, and possibly a light coat or jacket should work.
Question

Could I get poisoned or something if I explore an abandoned lab?

Community Answer

You could, depending on what activity was being conducted in the lab. Wear a mask, gloves, and ideally, a complete protection suit. If you feel sick after the exploration, go to a hospital, tell them where you have been, and list the symptoms you have.
Question

How do you tell if a structure is safe or stable (besides doing a visual analysis)?

Community Answer

Well, you really can't. Just do the closest you can by walking slowly and testing your steps. Obviously, if the floor is collapsing, don't walk on it. It can also be helpful to do online and local library research to find out what has happened to the structure in recent years or decades, so that you understand its structural weaknesses clearly.
Question

What if I get trapped?

Community Answer

Make sure you have a form of communication with people, such as a charged phone. Know the address of the location, let others know the address, and always try to bring someone with you.
Question

Would it be okay to bring a dog along to keep me safe and find a way out if I'm lost?

Community Answer

It depends on whether the structure is stable and how likely the dog is to stay close to you. A lead would be a good idea to ensure its safety as well as yours. It is a nice idea in case someone tries to attack you, etc. but keep in mind, you will be putting the dog in danger.
Question

How do I ghost hunt in an abandoned school?

Community Answer

Bring an audio recorder and camera with you to catch ghosts in action if possible.
Question

What diseases might be found in abandoned buildings?

Community Answer

Asbestos and black mold are the most common found in old decaying buildings. As long as you're not in the building for too long, you should be OK. Breathing through your shirt could help, but if you're worried, get an inexpensive dust mask on Amazon or at your local hardware store.
Question

How likely is it for an abandoned hospital to have equipment?

Kevin Zhou

Community Answer

Highly unlikely. Any equipment will have been auctioned off at the time of the hospital's closure. If there is any equipment left, it means that the equipment is either broken or not worth taking.

Warnings

Buildings that are condemned or abandoned and boarded or fenced off are that way because they are dangerous. If you want to undertake this activity make sure you are okay with the fact that if something goes wrong you WILL be putting your rescuers, i.e. Police, Firefighters, EMS personnel at risk when they come to your aid. Not only could you be injured and charged with a crime, you could also get others hurt and be liable for reimbursing agencies for the expenses incurred in aiding you. Have fun if you think the risk is worth it.

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If you are confronted by a neighbor, security guard or policeman don't run away. This will only compound any trouble you may be in. Explain why you are there and what you have been doing.

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If you have to "squeeze" in somewhere, consider whether you will be able to squeeze-out later.

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As said before, don't explore catacombs unless you are sure it will be fine.

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If an abandoned building or area has a sign that displays "NO TRESPASSING" it is illegal to enter without proper authorization.

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Don't shut any doors unless you have another way out!!!

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Be wary of enclosed places that can contain little to no oxygen. Pipes, pits in the ground and farm silos are all enclosed spaces that can accumulate dangerous gases.

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Asbestos used to be a building material of choice from the 1930s up to the late 1970s. Its nano-sized particles become airborne from the slightest disturbance or draft. It is highly proven when inhaled to cause Asbestosis (scarring of the lungs), lung cancer and mesothelioma (cancer of the chest lining), which can cause a painful death. If you do not wear a gas mask, it would be well worth your time to read up and study the various forms of asbestos beforehand. This will enable you to identify asbestos and steer clear of a possible premature death.

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Taking a shower and changing clothes soon after an extended exploration is a good idea, in order to remove any irritating or harmful substances you may have accidentally come across.

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BE CAREFUL! Exploring any structures can be lots of fun, but it can also be very dangerous!

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Be aware that actually forcing your way into a structure is an additional crime to that of trespassing.

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Old buildings may contain other hazards, such as poisonous substances or asbestos. There will sometimes be a warning sign, but not always! Be careful not to disturb any insulation, ceiling, or floor tiles in order to avoid dangerous airborne asbestos fibers.

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Be careful of exploring abandoned places, you can get arrested for trespassing or other related charges.

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If the structure has been abandoned by the original property owner, there might be new residents (squatters!). If you find someone else inside the building, let them know you are there and tell them you're just exploring. Some squatters can be very dangerous, so try to avoid physical confrontation and leave immediately if you think you are in danger of being assaulted.

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Know the local trespassing laws and be ready to accept the possible consequences. Also, be aware of mitigating circumstances: bringing a few tools in case you need them might seem like a good idea, but if you are caught you'll be in more trouble! Also, in some areas it is a worse crime if you are caught at night.

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The majority of explorers forget to ensure whether or not power is still running in a structure like a mall. If it is (or a small part is still running on generator power), be extremely cautious regarding security cameras and/or alarm systems. Some alarm systems are triggered by doors being opened, pressure plates, electromagnetic frequencies, ultraviolet, etc. and can take anywhere from a millisecond from 90 seconds to sound and alert the authorities, or if it is a silent alarm, you will be in for a surprise.

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Spiders love old buildings, and many are poisonous. Black widow, brown recluse, and other spiders can cause serious wounds. Wear thin leather gloves for protection.

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Be cautious if the structure shows signs of vandalism, forced entry, looting, or other destructive criminal acts. Urban exploring is not a destructive activity but you can easily be blamed for any damage to a building. Consider what would happen if they charged you with whatever graffiti, theft, or property damage the building has suffered in the last few months.

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Remember, this is illegal almost everywhere! Be careful!

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Don't forget, this can be very dangerous!

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If you must enter a building with a posted warning that it is unsafe or condemned, test every step before you put your weight down, as the floorboards may give way. Beware of peeling lead-based paint and insulation.

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Be aware that stagnant environments often lead to heightened concentrations of diseases, bugs, and pathogens. Evidence of unhealthy environments include mold, animal and bird droppings, saturated building materials, and dead animals. Areas of extreme stagnation, such as mines, pits, and drains can pose undetectable gas hazards.

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Things You'll Need

A pair of long pants
A shirt with long sleeves
A pair of gloves: thin leather is best
Sturdy footwear - waterproof is best
A flashlight (Red Filter Optional)
A spare flashlight
A camera (recommended - if you are caught, it will help to have some physical evidence that you were there doing something other than stealing or vandalizing)
Spare batteries
A map of the area (if available)
Gas mask/Goggles & respirator for eye and lung protection (Not all respirators are certified to protect you from asbestos. Make sure you know what kind you are buying)
A Trusted Buddy for Backup (dangerous situations)
Do not bring any tools such as screwdrivers, wrenches, wire-strippers, etc. - if you are caught, they will be enough to get you in trouble for attempted robbery.
A cell phone, in case you get injured.