Top Tips for Securing Unoccupied Properties

Securing empty buildings is crucial to prevent potential risks such as theft, vandalism, and unauthorised access. Unoccupied properties can quickly become targets for crime or accidental damage, leading to costly repairs, safety hazards, and legal liabilities. By taking proactive security measures, property owners can protect their investment, reduce risks, and ensure the safety of surrounding areas.

Site Perimeter

1. Inspect and secure fencing; repair any breaches.

2. Lock gates with quality padlocks (CEN Grade 3+) and restrict car park access.

3. In high-risk areas, use temporary concrete barriers or mounds to block vehicular entry.

4. Maintain the site appearance (remove graffiti, cut back vegetation).

5. Ensure external lighting is sufficient, ideally motion-activated or on timers.

6. Drain or lock off fuel tanks and remove combustible materials from the site.

Building Perimeter

1. Remove climbing risks by using anti-climb paint or barriers.

2. Secure all doors and windows, using metal screens for high-risk locations.

3. Seal letterboxes and other openings to prevent misuse.

4. Use approved locks (BS3621) on entrance doors and double-leaf doors.

5. Protect valuable materials (e.g., roofing lead) with security measures like “Smart Water.”

Services/Utilities

1. Shut off water supplies and drain systems to prevent leaks and freezing (except for sprinklers).

2. Keep heating on if sprinklers are present, maintaining a temperature above 4°C.

3. Turn off gas and isolate electrical circuits, except those powering essential systems (e.g., fire/security).

Internal Security

1. Remove valuable contents and hazardous materials.

2. Use internal lights on timers to create the illusion of occupancy.

3. Secure fire doors and internal doors where possible (inform the fire service of any changes).

Alarm/CCTV/Fire Protection

1. Ensure all existing alarm and fire protection systems remain operational and maintained.

2. Upgrade alarms to ensure automatic detection and response where needed.

3. Leave sprinkler systems operational.

4. For high-risk sites, consider temporary alarm or CCTV systems, with a professional keyholder response.

Security Guarding

1. Retain existing manned security if applicable.

2. For large or high-risk sites, consider employing 24/7 security guards.

This checklist provides practical measures to prevent property damage, theft, or vandalism while a property is unoccupied. Our goal is to raise awareness, this is not a comprehensive overview of the risk and it is important to recognise that every workplace has unique conditions and risks. It is your responsibility to verify the guidelines above are suitable for your specific risks, to undertake your own risk assessments and comply with appropriate legislation