Keeping a building occupied is the best way to slow its deterioration. However, a facility may need to be mothballed to buy time and preserve options for future use. Mothballing projects are often time consuming and can be expensive. If a facility needs to be mothballed, resources are available to help you do the job.

This report provides an overview of the major considerations for mothballing facilities, regardless of their formal historical designation. The checklist and other material presented here can help Forest Service employees who are planning mothballing projects. References cited in this report offer additional information on lead-based paint, pest control, moisture, ventilation, and other topics.

Deterioration can be held in check when buildings are mothballed properly. Facility managers need a solid plan, the resources for stabilization and mothballing, and the money and staff to monitor and maintain the building until it is put back into service. This expenditure of time and money can buy time so a building that is unneeded temporarily can again become useful to the agency and the public.