Protecting Vacant Properties

If neglected, vacant properties can quickly fall into disrepair and may become a target for arson, theft, vandalism, squatting, and possibly even urban exploring if the building has any unusual or interesting characteristics

Empty properties by their very nature are more vulnerable than occupied ones and the impact of any problems arising, such as a leaking roof, tend to have a greater impact as they can go unnoticed for longer periods. 

Metal theft remains a big problem, with copper wiring, lead roofs, garden ornaments and other metals being targeted by thieves. With the prices of some metals on the rise, including copper, the chances of an unoccupied property being attacked to steal copper cabling, metal roof coverings etc. remains high. Just recently, an old public house was left temporarily vacant whilst it was being sold. Three men wearing high-visibility jackets turned up one day with a lorry and ladders, and proceeded to calmly strip the roof of its lead, unchallenged in broad daylight.

Urban explorers, or ‘urbex’, are a group of people, who like to explore closed, empty or derelict buildings, like churches, old country houses, theatres and sports grounds. They don’t think of themselves as trespassing or breaking and entering, but just curious explorers. However, whilst the unspoken rule of urban exploring is "take nothing but photographs, leave nothing but footprints", with its rising popularity not everyone may stick with these principles. 

Empty properties are more susceptible to damage caused by burst pipes and storms, because water leakage can go undetected for long periods of time. A burst pipe unnoticed for just a few hours, let alone days, could result in extensive damage requiring expensive repairs. 

If an unauthorised trespasser to a vacant property injures themselves and the cause of their injury is found to be the result of the property owner’s negligence, the owner can be liable for damages. A hole in the ground, such as an open manhole cover, is a risk – if someone falls in, there can be serious injury, putting the property owner at risk of prosecution and subsequent payment of damages under the Occupier’s Liability Act 1995.

The first line of defence against many of the risks outlined above is to secure the premises well, to prevent unauthorised entry. Assess the risks – the detailed eye of a professional risk-assessor is recommended – and then implement the best-fit solution or combination of options. 

In addition to alarms, to reduce the risk of arson, combustible items and waste should be removed, both inside and outside the premises, otherwise they can be used by vandals to start a fire.