Empty Property at risk from criminals

Empty property is at risk from criminal activity, particularly vandalism and arson.

Loss of rent and ongoing business rates mean empty property is costly for landlords and property owners.

Shutting down an unoccupied building in a structured way will help protect it and minimise the cost of potentially uninsured criminal damage.

Shutting down in an orderly way is also required by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Fundamentally, measures need to be taken to reduce the risks of fire and intrusion, including:

• Remove all combustible waste, surplus furniture and floor coverings to help fire-fighting
• Redirect post so it does not fuel a fire or advertise that the building is empty
• Disconnect selected services no longer required
• Ensure fire detection, sprinkler systems and intruder alarms are maintained
• Upgrade perimeter security – but get local planning authority permission for any changes
• Inspect the empty property regularly and repair and re-secure it promptly as required

By taking such precautions and regularly inspecting the property the risk of escalating damage is reduced.

You must advise the provider of your buildings or property owners insurance that the property is unoccupied, even if it is only going to be for a short period of time.

Obtain property owners insurance information from you local Cherrypicked Broker. They can also provide you with a copy of Norwich Union’s Code for Unoccupied Buildings.

Insurance will be provided through members of the Willis Commercial Network, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

FP728

To talk to an expert in your area and get a quote.