If the seller is home, I ask them to make way. If not, I will move boxes and clothes when the hatch is indeed accessible. If not I dsclaim it loudly. I find my "Telespteps" ladder is pretty good at being poked through these hatches so as not to lean on anything. The ladder's case makes a great drop cloth, and wall protector! I also carry a dirt devil and sheet. Depending on what the roof and ceilings look like, I will at times exceed standard care to get in the attic, but I know I shouldn't, it's a bit risky.