Safeguarding Occasionally Occupied & Vacant Properties

Whether you own a property or piece of land that’s undergoing development, you’ve had to leave properties unattended due to urgent repairs, or you’re undertaking remedial construction work, it’s vital that you keep it secure. 

Unfortunately, leaving any property vacant or sparsely attended invites several risks, even if the reasons for abandoning it temporarily may be justified. Risks range from weather damage to trespassing, theft and vandalism, among others. If these threats are left unaddressed, they could materialise into hugely expensive problems that could have easily been prevented.

Fear not, as implementing a few key layers of protection keeps belongings, structures and land secure across extended absences. The suggestions below outline some of the most important ways to keep a vacant property secure for long periods.

How to Enhance Security of Unoccupied or Occasionally Occupied Properties

CCTV Monitoring

Installing CCTV camera systems deters criminal activity before it happens. Visible signage warning of active surveillance makes culprits think twice, while cameras provide active real-time monitoring if deterrence fails. Recorded footage aids in identifying perpetrators for prosecution if they gain access or are caught red-handed. Position cameras to capture all critical entry points and perimeters.

Boundary Fencing

Protect vacant land or properties with durable closeboard fencing to establish definitive borders not easily breached. Quality wood or steel barriers keep valuables concealed from sight while preventing easy unauthorised access. For added security, erect fences inside wider perimeter trenches or berms to hinder tunnelling underneath.

Concrete Barriers

Since vacant sites rarely see traffic, vehicles entering the grounds become immediate red flags for misconduct or unwarranted criminal activity. Prevent vehicle access altogether by installing heavy concrete barriers and bollards at driveways and entry points. Concrete jersey walls, bollards and trenches stop cars while still enabling pedestrian entry if needed, but the vehicle damage risk is exponentially reduced with their presence. 

Access Controls

If your site has a universal entrance that personnel can exclusively use as an entrance and exit, it makes sense to bolster the entrance control. Funnel all necessary foot traffic through a single gated entrance equipped with reputable locking mechanisms. Reinforce the protection with mobile alarms, or, consider having the entrance monitored by an individual. Monitor gates with CCTV surveillance and keep keys restricted to essential personnel. 

Security Patrols

Nothing replaces having actual “eyes on target” when monitoring weak spots across dormant or vacant properties. Contract professional security teams to conduct regular patrols and checks for breaches, damages or unlawful activity. Flexible daily schedules and overnight surveillance patrols minimise the possible time frames for criminals to exploit your property. Augment human presence with dog units to enhance protective coverage and add further deterrence to criminals.

Empty Property Protection Services

Vacant sites demand just as much, if not greater, security than occupied properties. The most effective approach involves proactive assessments of current security measures, and bolstering them individually as necessary and as much as your budget allows.

At Maltaward, our team of security experts offer vacant property protection systems for any domestic or commercial premises. We can tailor products and services that accommodate both your budget and security needs.

In addition to our preventative measures, we also have a nationwide network of fast-response teams for dealing with emergencies and developing situations that may be affecting your vacant site security. For further information, call us now.