A vacant building quickly becomes a target. Empty premises attract theft, vandalism, fly-tipping, arson and unauthorised occupation, and the damage can be costly before anyone notices.
Start with your insurance
Check your policy. Many insurers set conditions for unoccupied buildings, such as regular inspections, secured openings and utilities isolated. Failing to meet a condition can put a claim at risk, so keep dated records of everything you do.
A practical checklist
- Secure all doors and windows, and board up openings that cannot be made secure.
- Isolate utilities where appropriate, and drain down water systems if the heating will be off.
- Remove combustible waste and keep external areas clear of rubbish.
- Clear post and remove valuables, documents and anything easy to steal.
- Keep alarms and lighting working, and check them regularly.
- Make the building look cared for: a tidy exterior, no overflowing post and visible signage where appropriate.
- Schedule regular internal and external inspections and keep photo records of each visit.
Why regular inspections matter
An inspection is the moment a small problem, such as a broken window or a leak, is found before it becomes a big one. Photo-led reports give you a dated record of the condition of the building at each visit, which can be valuable evidence for your insurer.
Unauthorised occupation
Squatting in a residential building is a criminal offence in England and Wales, but squatting in a non-residential building is generally treated as a civil matter, and the law differs in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Prevention is far easier than removal, so secure the property early and check it often.
How Secure FM helps
Secure FM provides boarding-up, inspections and mobile patrols for void and high-risk properties across the UK, with photo-led reports after each visit. To discuss a property, call our 24/7 helpline on 0330 088 0991 or email info@securefm.ltd.