ultima online house decay

In Ultima Online (UO), house decay is a mechanic designed to prevent inactive players from occupying valuable housing spots indefinitely. Heres how it works: House Decay Mechanics Decay Timer Starts: - A house enters the decay state if the owner does not visit it within a set period (varies by server). - On official servers (OSI/EA/Broadsword), the decay timer starts after 80 days of inactivity (no owner access). - On free shards (private servers), decay timers can vary (often shorter, e.g., 1430 days). Decay Stages: - Stage 1 (Warning): The house becomes "decaying" and shows cracks. - Stage 2 (Collapse): If still unrefreshed, the house collapses into a "house foundation" (a deed-like item). - Stage 3 (Final Removal): If the foundation is not picked up, it eventually disappears, freeing the plot. Refreshing Your House: - The owner (or co-owner/friend with refresh permissions) must enter the house to reset the timer. - Some servers allow refreshing via house sign (e.g., "Refresh" button). Demolishing vs. Decay: - Players can manually demolish a house via the house sign (instantly removes it). - Decay is automatic if the owner is inactive. How to Prevent House Decay Log in regularly (at least once every 80 days on official servers). Grant refresh access to trusted friends/guildmates. Use a script/macro (if allowed) to automate refreshing (some free shards allow this). Free Shard Differences Private servers often have shorter decay timers (e.g., 730 days). Some offer alternative refresh methods (commands, donation perks). Rules varycheck your shards policies. Recovering a Decayed House If your house collapses, you (or someone with access) can pick up the foundation and place it again. If the foundation expires, the house is permanently lost. Would you like details for a specific UO server (e.g., Atlantic, Outlands, UO Forever)?