To secure an empty property effectively, you need a comprehensive approach that combines physical security measures such as robust locks and security screens, surveillance systems like CCTV and alarms, creating an appearance of occupancy with timer lights and regular maintenance, while also considering professional security services and appropriate insurance coverage for vacant buildings.
Recent statistics reveal the alarming scope of empty property risks in the UK, with over 676,000 vacant properties in England alone according to Government figures, showing a concerning 5% rise compared to the previous year. The Office of National Statistics reports that 750,000 vacant buildings are vandalised annually, while Home Office estimates indicate approximately 60 fires occur daily in unoccupied or derelict properties across the UK. With £500 million spent yearly on repairing vandalism damage to vacant properties and an additional £770 million lost to metal theft, securing empty buildings has never been more critical for property owners.
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Why Empty Properties Are Vulnerable to Security Risks?
Vacant properties present unique security challenges compared to occupied buildings. Without the natural deterrent of human presence, these buildings become prime targets for various criminal activities. Understanding these vulnerabilities is the first step toward implementing effective security measures.
Empty properties often face increased risks due to:
- Lack of regular occupancy creating opportunities for undetected entry
- Visible signs of vacancy such as overgrown gardens or accumulated mail
- Reduced neighbourhood surveillance and reporting of suspicious activity
- Perception as “easy targets” for criminals seeking low-risk opportunities
- Extended periods without inspection allowing minor security breaches to escalate
- Seasonal risks such as frozen pipes in winter or storm damage going unnoticed
- Attractiveness for squatters seeking shelter (estimated 22,000 squatters in England)
- Potential for use in illegal activities like drug production or distribution
Anne from Wakefield experienced these challenges when she inherited her mother’s house. “I lived over 200 miles away and couldn’t regularly check on the property. Within weeks of it becoming empty, vandals broke windows and graffitied the exterior. After a small pipe leak went undetected, the resulting water damage made the property nearly unsellable through traditional estate agents.” Anne eventually contacted Property Saviour for help. As a cash house buyer, we were able to purchase her damaged property quickly, relieving her of the ongoing security concerns and maintenance issues that had become increasingly stressful from a distance. If you’re struggling with a vacant property, remember that we’re here to help with understanding and practical solutions.
Essential Physical Security Measures for Vacant Properties
When safeguarding an empty property, physical barriers form your first and most crucial line of defence. From basic door locks to comprehensive shuttering systems, these measures create tangible obstacles that deter opportunistic intruders and provide visible evidence of security consciousness.
For properties that will remain vacant for extended periods, consider this progressive approach to physical security based on vacancy duration:
Recommended Security Measures Based on Vacancy Duration
This table provides a framework for making security decisions based on how long your property will remain empty. As you can see, short-term vacancies might require only basic measures, while properties empty for months or years justify more substantial investment in security. Remember that these costs should be weighed against the potential expenses associated with break-ins, vandalism, or squatters, which can quickly exceed thousands of pounds in damage and legal fees.
| Vacancy Period | Recommended Security Level | Key Measures | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 weeks | Basic | Quality locks, timer lights, neighbour checks | £50-£200 |
| 1-6 months | Intermediate | Alarm system, security lights, reinforced entry points | £300-£1,000 |
| 6+ months | Advanced | Steel security doors, window shutters, CCTV, property guardian | £1,000-£5,000+ |
| Indefinite | Maximum | Full shuttering, monitored alarm, regular security patrols | £5,000+ |
For commercial properties specifically, the security requirements may be even more stringent due to valuable equipment, stock, or materials that might remain on site. If you’re looking to sell commercial property that’s sitting vacant, addressing security concerns properly can help maintain its value while awaiting a buyer.
How to Make Your Empty Property Look Occupied?
One of the most effective deterrents against criminal activity is creating the impression that a property remains inhabited. Potential intruders are much less likely to target a home they believe is currently occupied. These techniques help maintain the appearance of ongoing occupancy:
Install timer switches on lights in different rooms to create natural lighting patterns
Consider smart home devices that can be programmed to turn on televisions or radios periodically
Arrange for regular garden maintenance to prevent the overgrown appearance of neglect
Ask trusted neighbours to park occasionally in your driveway
Install motion-sensor exterior lighting to give the impression of reaction to movement
Use net curtains or blinds to prevent people seeing directly into empty rooms
Have mail regularly collected or redirected to prevent visible accumulation
Consider occasional changes to the property’s appearance (moving visible items, adjusting blinds)
In winter months, arrange for snow or ice removal from pathways and driveways
If possible, leave some basic furniture visible through windows rather than completely empty rooms
These measures work together to create doubt in the minds of potential intruders about whether the property is truly vacant. As one Reddit user wisely noted, “The best security is making them wonder if someone’s home. I left a pair of muddy boots by my door and a radio on timer when I was away for three weeks, and my house was the only one on my street not broken into during a spree of burglaries.”
At Property Saviour, we understand that maintaining this level of attention for an empty property can be challenging, especially if you live far away or have other pressing responsibilities. If the burden of securing and maintaining a vacant property is becoming overwhelming, remember that we offer a guaranteed sale through our we buy any house service, providing a swift resolution when security concerns become unmanageable.
CCTV and Alarm Systems for Vacant Properties: What Works Best?
Modern surveillance technology offers powerful tools for securing empty properties, but choosing the right system requires careful consideration of your specific circumstances, budget and property characteristics.
For vacant properties, look for security systems with these key features:
Remote monitoring capability through smartphone apps
Battery backup in case of power outages
Motion detection with immediate notifications
Weather-resistant cameras for exterior surveillance
Night vision capability for 24-hour protection
Two-way audio to potentially deter intruders remotely
Cloud storage of footage for evidence if needed
Low-maintenance operation for extended periods
When considering alarm systems specifically, those with direct links to monitoring centres prove most effective for vacant properties. Unlike standard alarms that rely on neighbours reporting activation, monitored systems trigger immediate response from security companies who can dispatch personnel to investigate. This is particularly valuable for properties in isolated locations or areas where neighbours might ignore alarm sounds.
One particularly effective innovation for vacant property security is the mobile security tower. These self-contained units combine CCTV, lighting, and often loudspeaker warnings in a highly visible deterrent. Their obvious presence alone can discourage potential intruders before any actual breach is attempted.
What Are Property Guardians and Are They Right for Your Empty Building?
Property guardianship offers an innovative solution to vacant property security by placing vetted occupants in buildings that would otherwise stand empty. These guardians live in the property at reduced rent in exchange for maintaining a presence that deters criminal activity and reports any maintenance issues.
For property owners, this approach provides several advantages:
Human occupancy creates the ultimate deterrent to break-ins and vandalism
Regular reports on property condition help identify issues early
Reduced council tax or business rates liability (as the property is occupied)
Lower security costs compared to technological solutions
Potential income generation rather than pure security expense
However, guardianship schemes aren’t suitable for all vacant properties. They work best for buildings with basic habitable conditions including functioning utilities, reasonable safety standards, and appropriate facilities. Very dilapidated properties, those in unsafe areas, or buildings with planned short-term redevelopment may not qualify for guardian programmes.
When considering property guardians, it’s essential to work with reputable companies that properly vet their guardians, maintain appropriate legal agreements, and understand the unique legal framework surrounding this arrangement. While not a traditional tenancy, property guardianship still creates certain obligations for property owners regarding safety and habitability.
How to Protect Your Empty Property from Weather Damage and Maintenance Issues?
While security concerns often dominate discussions about empty properties, environmental damage can prove equally costly. Without regular occupancy, minor issues like small leaks or condensation problems can escalate into major damage before detection.
To protect your vacant property from weather and maintenance issues:
Set heating to maintain a low background temperature (around 12°C) during winter to prevent frozen pipes
Consider draining water systems entirely for long-term vacancies
Ensure gutters and drainpipes are clear to prevent water damage during heavy rainfall
Check roof tiles and flashing before leaving the property vacant for extended periods
Seal any gaps around windows and doors to prevent water ingress and pest entry
Arrange for periodic internal inspections, particularly after extreme weather events
Consider installing smart sensors for water leaks, temperature changes, or humidity issues
Maintain any garden areas to prevent tree or plant damage to the building
Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent mould and condensation damage
Leave internal doors open to improve air circulation throughout the property
David from Reading learned these lessons the hard way after leaving his late father’s house empty during winter. “I thought turning everything off was the safest approach. What I didn’t realise was that without minimal heating, the pipes froze and then burst once temperatures rose slightly. The water damage was extensive, affecting ceilings, walls and floors across two levels.” When faced with repair costs exceeding £20,000, David reached out to us at Property Saviour. As an experienced property buying company, we were able to offer a fair price for the damaged property without David needing to undertake costly repairs. If you’re dealing with similar challenges, we can provide options tailored to your situation with both understanding and practical support.
How Much Does It Cost to Secure an Empty Property Professionally?
Professional security for vacant properties represents a significant investment, but one that must be weighed against the potential costs of break-ins, vandalism, or squatter removal. Understanding the various options and their pricing helps property owners make informed decisions about appropriate security levels.
The cost of professional vacant property security services varies widely based on:
Property size and vulnerability
Location and local crime rates
Duration of vacancy
Level of security required
Whether 24/7 monitoring is needed
If physical security features need installation
Whether regular inspections are included
The value of contents remaining in the property
For example, basic keyholding and alarm response services might cost £300-£500 annually, while comprehensive solutions including physical security measures, regular patrols, and response services could exceed £10,000 per year for larger properties. Many security companies offer tailored packages based on risk assessments of your specific property.
When evaluating security costs, consider that removing squatters legally costs upwards of £5,000 per instance, while serious vandalism or metal theft can easily exceed £10,000 in repairs. From this perspective, preventative security measures often represent good value compared to the alternative costs of dealing with security breaches after they occur.
What Insurance Considerations Are Important for Vacant Properties?
Standard home or commercial insurance policies typically provide coverage for properties left unoccupied for up to 30-60 days. Beyond this period, special vacant property insurance becomes essential as standard policies may become invalid or severely restricted for long-term empty buildings.
When insuring a vacant property, be aware of these common requirements from insurers:
Regular inspections (often weekly or bi-weekly) with documented evidence
Maintenance of minimum heating during winter months
Utilities management (either turned off completely or maintained at appropriate levels)
Specific security measures such as locks meeting British Standard requirements
Removal of valuable contents where possible
Compliance with any additional security stipulations in your policy
Insurers view vacant properties as higher risk due to increased likelihood of undetected damage, delayed response to incidents, and greater attractiveness to criminals. As a result, premiums for vacant property insurance typically cost 50-150% more than standard occupied property coverage.
One Reddit user shared valuable insight we’ve found matches our experience at Property Saviour: “After my insurance doubled for my empty house, I discovered that installing certain security measures actually reduced my premium significantly. The insurer gave me discounts for installing an approved alarm system, fitting security doors, and arranging weekly inspections. The security investment essentially paid for itself through reduced premiums.”
If insurance costs for your vacant property are becoming prohibitive or you’re struggling to find appropriate coverage, it might be time to consider whether holding onto the property makes financial sense. As a cash house buyer, we can provide a straightforward solution when the combined costs of security, insurance, and maintenance make keeping an empty property financially unsustainable.
Legal Responsibilities for Owners of Empty Properties
Owning a vacant property comes with specific legal obligations that many property owners aren’t fully aware of until problems arise. Understanding these responsibilities helps avoid potential liability issues and council enforcement actions.
Key legal considerations for empty property owners include:
Duty of care to prevent harm to visitors (even trespassers)
Compliance with specific vacant property requirements from insurers
Responsibility for preventing statutory nuisances (e.g., dangerous structures)
Liability for environmental health issues affecting neighbouring properties
Requirement to pay council tax (though discounts may apply for empty properties)
Compliance with Empty Dwelling Management Orders if applicable
Responsibility for preventing fly-tipping on the property
Local authority powers to force repairs or even compulsory purchase in extreme cases
Local councils have increasing powers to address problematic empty properties, including the ability to issue Improvement Notices, undertake works in default (charging the owner), or even pursue Compulsory Purchase Orders for long-term vacant buildings causing community issues.
To avoid these escalating interventions, maintaining your empty property’s security and condition is essential. Demonstrating responsible ownership through regular maintenance and appropriate security measures helps prevent council involvement and protects your asset’s value.
Should You Consider Selling Your Empty Property Instead of Securing It?
For many property owners, the ongoing costs and responsibilities of maintaining a vacant property eventually prompt the question of whether selling might be the more sensible option. This consideration becomes particularly relevant when:
The property has been empty for an extended period with no clear plans for use
Security, insurance and maintenance costs are escalating
The property is deteriorating despite security measures
You live far from the property, making management difficult
Local property market conditions are favourable for selling
The financial and emotional burden of responsibility is significant
Council pressure regarding the empty status is increasing
When weighing this decision, it’s worth calculating the total annual cost of keeping the property empty, including security, insurance, council tax, utilities, maintenance, and depreciation. In many cases, these combined expenses represent a significant financial drain that could be eliminated through a timely sale.
For properties that require extensive renovation or have been empty for years, traditional estate agent sales can prove challenging. In these situations, working with a specialist property buyer like Property Saviour can offer advantages through our “we buy any house” service. We understand the unique challenges of empty properties and can provide certainty and speed when you need to move forward without the ongoing burden of vacant property ownership.
If you’re finding that your empty property has become more of a liability than an asset, reaching out to discuss your options might provide the solution you’ve been looking for. Our team approaches each situation with empathy and understanding, recognising that circumstances leading to property vacancy are often complex and sometimes emotional.
Is it better to sell a house empty or furnished?
Deciding whether to sell a house empty or furnished depends on your specific situation and the type of buyers you’re targeting. Selling an empty house can make it easier for potential buyers to visualise their own furniture and style in the space, which is particularly appealing to those who want a blank canvas. It also allows architectural features like flooring, windows, and room size to stand out without distractions. However, an empty home can feel cold and uninviting, making it harder for buyers to form an emotional connection. Flaws like scuffed walls or worn floors may also be more noticeable in an unfurnished property.
On the other hand, selling a house furnished can help buyers see how the space can be used and create a sense of warmth and homeliness. Thoughtfully staged furniture can make rooms appear larger and more functional, which is particularly useful for awkwardly shaped spaces. However, personal tastes vary, and some buyers might find it difficult to imagine their own style if the furnishings don’t suit them.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your target market and the condition of the property. If you’re selling a modern home or targeting first-time buyers, staging it with furniture might make it more appealing. For older properties or those requiring work, leaving it empty could highlight its potential. If you’re looking for a quick and hassle-free sale regardless of whether your house is empty or furnished, Property Saviour is here to help. We buy homes in any condition and offer a fast cash sale with no fees or deductions. Get in touch today for a free offer!
How long can a property be left empty?
A property can technically be left empty for as long as you want, but there are practical and financial implications to consider. For example, most standard home insurance policies only cover empty properties for 30 to 60 days, so you may need specialist unoccupied property insurance if the house remains vacant for longer. Additionally, council tax premiums can apply to long-term empty homes. If your property has been empty for over a year, councils can charge extra council tax, and this premium increases the longer the property stays vacant—up to four times the normal rate after 10 years.
Leaving a property empty also comes with risks such as vandalism, squatters, and deterioration due to lack of maintenance. Local councils may intervene if the property becomes an eyesore or remains unoccupied for extended periods. They can issue Empty Dwelling Management Orders (EDMOs) after six months or even Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs) if the property is deemed necessary for public use.
If maintaining an empty property is becoming too costly or stressful, selling it might be the best option. At Property Saviour, we buy houses in any condition—including those that have been left empty—and offer a quick cash sale with no fees or deductions. Contact us today for a free offer and let us help you move forward!
What happens when a house sits empty?
When a house sits empty for too long, it can quickly become a headache. One of the biggest worries is vandalism—empty properties tend to attract unwanted attention, and before you know it, you could be dealing with broken windows, graffiti, or other damage. Theft is another common issue, with burglars targeting vacant homes to strip out things like copper pipes, fixtures, or even appliances. These problems can spiral out of control if left unchecked, leaving you with costly repairs.
Another thing to keep in mind is how the property looks from the outside. If your home starts to look abandoned or run-down, the local council might step in. They can issue improvement notices, which require you to fix up any hazards like structural damage or unsafe conditions. In more serious cases, they could issue a prohibition notice, which might restrict the use of parts of the property or even declare it unfit to live in. Ignoring these notices can lead to fines or legal trouble—not something anyone wants to deal with.
And then there’s council tax. If your property has been empty for more than a year, you’ll likely face extra charges on top of your usual bill. The longer it stays vacant, the higher the premium gets—after 10 years, you could be paying up to four times the normal amount.
If all of this sounds like more stress than it’s worth, selling the property might be your best option. At Property Saviour, we buy houses in any condition—even if they’re empty and looking a bit worse for wear. We offer a quick cash sale with no fees or deductions, so you can move on without all the hassle. Get in touch with us today for a free offer—we’re here to help!
Are empty properties harder to sell?
Selling an empty property can be a bit tricky, and there are a few reasons why. For starters, an empty house often feels cold and uninviting, which can make it harder for buyers to imagine themselves living there. Without furniture or décor, it’s not always easy for people to picture how the space could work for them, and that lack of emotional connection might mean fewer offers—or lower ones.
Another challenge is that any flaws in the property stand out more when it’s empty. Things like scuffed walls, worn carpets, or cracks in the plaster can be much more noticeable without furniture to draw the eye elsewhere. If the house has been sitting vacant for a while, it might even start to look neglected, which could make buyers wonder if there are bigger issues hiding beneath the surface.
There’s also the security factor. Empty homes are more vulnerable to vandalism, theft, or even squatters, which can add stress and extra costs to the selling process. Plus, you’ll still need to cover things like council tax, insurance, and maintenance while the house is on the market—and those costs can add up quickly.
That said, selling an empty property isn’t impossible—you just need to approach it the right way. Staging it with furniture or even using virtual staging can help buyers see its potential. Keeping it clean, well-maintained, and secure will also make a big difference.
If you’re finding it hard to sell your empty house or just want a quick and hassle-free solution, Property Saviour is here to help. We buy homes in any condition—even if they’re vacant—and offer a fast cash sale with no fees or deductions. Get in touch today for a free offer—we’ll take care of everything so you don’t have to!
Does the value of a house increase if it is left unoccupied?
Leaving a house unoccupied doesn’t automatically increase its value—in fact, it can often do the opposite. When a property is left empty for too long, it can start to deteriorate. Issues like damp, mould, or even structural problems can creep in without regular maintenance, which can lower the property’s value. On top of that, empty homes are more likely to attract vandals, thieves, or even squatters, leading to costly repairs and making the property less appealing to buyers.
There’s also the way buyers perceive an empty house. An unoccupied property can sometimes come across as neglected or unloved, which might make buyers hesitant or lead them to put in lower offers. Some might even assume you’re desperate to sell quickly and try to negotiate a lower price.
That said, property prices in general might go up over time due to market trends or if the house is in a desirable area. But this isn’t guaranteed, and any increase could easily be outweighed by the costs of keeping the property empty—like council tax premiums for long-term vacancies or higher insurance rates.
If you’ve got an empty house and you’re worried about it losing value or costing you money, selling it might be your best option. At Property Saviour, we buy houses in any condition—even if they’ve been sitting empty—and offer a fast cash sale with no fees or deductions. Get in touch with us today for a free offer and let us take the stress off your hands!
Can you sell a derelict property?
Yes, you can sell a derelict property, but it’s not always straightforward. Derelict properties are typically in poor condition, often uninhabitable, and require extensive repairs. Because of this, they are usually sold below market value to attract buyers who see potential in renovation projects or redevelopment opportunities.
One of the challenges with selling a derelict property is that traditional buyers may struggle to secure a mortgage due to its condition. This limits your pool of buyers to cash purchasers, such as developers or investors, who are willing to take on the risks and costs of refurbishment. For example, a derelict property with structural issues like subsidence or roof damage might appeal to someone looking to demolish and rebuild or transform it into something profitable.
If you’re considering selling a derelict property, you’ll need to be upfront about its condition and any major issues. While investing in repairs could make the property more appealing, not everyone has the time or money for such work. Alternatively, you can sell it as-is through options like auctions or directly to cash buyers.
At Property Saviour, we specialise in buying properties in any condition—including derelict ones—and offer a fast cash sale with no fees or deductions. If you’re ready to move on from a derelict property without the hassle of repairs or waiting for the right buyer, get in touch with us today for a free offer!
Will an empty house get damp?
Yes, you can sell a derelict property, but it’s not always easy. Properties in poor condition often struggle to attract traditional buyers, as most people prefer homes they can move into right away. Derelict properties may also be difficult to mortgage, which limits your potential buyers to cash purchasers, such as developers or investors. These buyers are usually looking for a project and will factor the cost of repairs or redevelopment into their offers, meaning you might have to sell for less than market value.
Selling a derelict property through an estate agent can take time, as buyers may be hesitant due to the work involved. Auctions are another option, as they tend to attract investors who are specifically looking for properties in need of renovation. However, auction sales aren’t guaranteed, and you’ll need to cover the costs of preparing a legal pack and other fees.
If you want a faster and more straightforward solution, Property Saviour can help. We buy properties in any condition—even if they’re derelict—and offer a quick cash sale with no fees or deductions. You’ll get a formal offer within 48 hours, and we can complete the sale in as little as 10 days. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation offer and let us take the hassle out of selling your derelict property!
Is it more difficult to sell an empty house?
Selling an empty house can be more difficult, but it depends on the circumstances. Without furniture or décor, an empty property can feel cold and uninviting, making it harder for buyers to imagine how they would use the space. It can also highlight flaws like scuffed walls, worn flooring, or other imperfections that might not stand out as much in a furnished home. For some buyers, an empty house may even give the impression that it’s been neglected or left unloved.
Another challenge is that empty homes can seem smaller than they actually are because there’s no furniture to provide a sense of scale. Buyers might struggle to visualise how their own belongings would fit, which could make them hesitant to commit. On top of that, an unoccupied house is more vulnerable to issues like vandalism, theft, or even damp if it’s not properly maintained.
That said, selling an empty house isn’t impossible. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help keep it looking its best, and staging the property—either physically or virtually—can make it easier for buyers to see its potential.
If you’re struggling to sell your empty house or simply want a quick and hassle-free solution, Property Saviour is here to help. We buy homes in any condition—including empty ones—and offer a fast cash sale with no fees or deductions. Get in touch today for a free offer and let us take the stress out of selling your property!
How to sell an empty house fast?
If you are thinking of selling your inherited property, then cash house buyers like Property Saviour can help you.
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