Vacant Property Security: Protecting Empty Buildings from Squatters and Vandalism

Vacant Property Security: Protecting Empty Buildings from Squatters and Vandalism

An empty building can quickly become a target for trespassing, vandalism, theft and squatting. With nobody regularly entering the premises, damage may remain unnoticed until it becomes expensive to repair.

For landlords, developers and property managers, professional vacant property security helps protect the building, meet insurance requirements and maintain clear inspection records.

Why Vacant Properties Need Protection

Signs of neglect can make an empty property more attractive to intruders. Common risks include:

1. Squatters and unauthorised entry
2. Theft of copper, wiring, boilers and fittings
3. Vandalism, graffiti and fire damage
4. Fly tipping and antisocial behaviour
5. Water leaks or electrical faults going unnoticed

Damaged locks, disturbed boarding or broken fencing should be investigated immediately. Responding early can stop an attempted break in from becoming a larger problem.

Insurance and Legal Considerations

Insurers may apply additional conditions when a building becomes unoccupied. These can include notifying the insurer, securing all entrances, isolating utilities and arranging regular documented inspections.

Requirements vary between policies, so owners should check their insurance wording carefully and keep a record of every property visit.

The legal position on squatting also depends on the building. Squatting in a residential property is a criminal offence in England and Wales. Occupying a commercial building without permission is not automatically a criminal offence, although associated damage or theft may be.

Owners should not attempt to remove occupiers using force. Prevention is usually easier and less expensive than recovering a property after occupation.

Vacant Property Security Options

The right protection depends on the property, location and level of risk.

1. Manned guarding provides a visible deterrent and immediate response. SIA licensed guards can control access, conduct patrols and report suspicious activity.
2. Mobile security patrols provide regular checks of doors, windows, fencing and vulnerable areas. They may suit lower risk properties or owners managing several sites.
3. Keyholding and alarm response ensures a trained team attends when an alarm is activated.
4. CCTV, lighting and physical protection provide wider monitoring and make unauthorised access more difficult.

Most properties benefit from a combination of physical protection, monitoring and documented inspections.

Before Leaving a Building Empty

1. Secure every entrance and accessible window
2. Remove valuable equipment and fittings
3. Notify the insurer
4. Manage utilities appropriately
5. Keep the exterior tidy and well lit
6. Arrange regular internal and external inspections
7. Record every visit with times, findings and photographs

Protect Your Empty Property with AR FM

AR FM Security provides empty property security across Birmingham and other UK cities. Our services include:

1. SIA licensed and fully vetted guards
2. Deployment within 24 to 48 hours
3. Digital patrol and incident reporting
4. Flexible short term and rolling contracts
5. Operational support available 24 hours a day

We assess the building and recommend security based on its actual risk, whether that requires regular mobile patrols, on site guarding or a combination of measures.

Request a Security Quote

Not sure how to protect your empty building? Call AR FM Security on 07310005644 or request a free quote to discuss the right protection for your property.