Whether you’re renovating, in-between moving house or are unable to find suitable tenants, unoccupied property is a scenario faced by an estimated 700,000 landlords across the nation. Yet despite what people may think, an unoccupied home requires a lot more attention than a simple ‘lock and leave’ mentality. To help you manage your unoccupied property as efficiently as possible, we’ve put together this list of tips that will keep your premises safe and secure.
Draining heating systems
If you know that your property is going to be unoccupied during the winter months, taking the time to drain your heating systems could save you the hassle and expense of dealing with frozen components and burst pipes. Alternatively, running the heating on low for a few hours a day can help thaw any frozen pipes before they turn into a serious plumbing issue.
Regularly check on the property
If possible, it’s advisable to check up on an unoccupied property every few weeks. Something as simple as a quick look around the rooms could prevent a small leak turning into a fully-fledged flood.
Leave on a hall light to thwart burglars
A dark house screams emptiness and is one of the fastest ways to attract burglars. If your property is furnished, you’re instantly putting your possessions at risk by confirming it is unoccupied night after night. Even if the property is empty, it could still attract vandals or squatters. The easiest way to thwart potential intruders is to leave on a hall light. Energy saving bulbs are the most cost effective solution while timer and motion sensors are also extremely useful. It’s also advisable to ask a neighbour to collect the post as a build-up of letters and junk mail is an instant sign of vacancy.
Take out unoccupied property insurance
For homes that are empty for a month or more, taking out an unoccupied property insurance policy is strongly advised. Unfortunately, unoccupied properties are subject to a range of risks not normally associated with rented premises. From fire and theft to squatters and vandalism, a comprehensive unoccupied property policy gives homeowners the peace of mind that their property is protected from all the associated risks. If you want to find the best deal with the lowest possible premium, using a quote compare website such as Compare Crazy is easy, simple and cost effective.
Ensure the property is secured
Checking that all windows and doors are locked is one of the first steps you should take when preparing to leave an unoccupied property. A burglar alarm is also highly recommended. As well as thwarting any intruders, adequate security is an essential part of complying with an unoccupied property insurance policy.
Whatever the reason, it’s important to take all the necessary precautionary steps when managing unoccupied property. By following these five simple tips, you can make sure that your vacant premises are kept safe and secure at all times.
