The True Cost of Leaving Your Vacant Property Unsecured

In the time that I’ve worked in security, I’ve seen the same situation play out again and again: a building gets left empty for a while – maybe it’s between tenants, or it’s part of a company restructure, or it’s just not being used as much right now – and nobody thinks much of it.

The locks are on, the lights are off, and people assume it’ll be fine until they’re back or until plans move forward. And sometimes, yes, it is fine.

But sometimes, it’s not.

I’ve been called out to deal with everything from break-ins and vandalism to squatters and serious water damage, all in buildings that were simply left empty and unchecked. The property might look secure on the surface, but without the right protection in place, the risks rack up quickly.

I know it’s not something people want to think about, especially when there’s so much else going on. But the truth is, leaving a property unsecured can cost more than just money. It brings stress, delays, insurance headaches, and in some cases, legal trouble.

In this post, I want to walk through what those costs actually look like, based on what we see happening across the UK – and what you can do to protect your building before it becomes a problem.

1. Increased insurance premiums

Insurance providers view vacant properties as high-risk due to their susceptibility to vandalism, theft, and unnoticed damage. Consequently, many insurers raise premiums for unoccupied properties. For instance, properties left unoccupied and unfurnished for over two years may be charged up to 150% of the normal Council Tax. ​

2. Financial implications of theft and vandalism

Vacant properties are prime targets for thieves and vandals. In the UK, there are an estimated 165,000 vacant privately owned commercial and business premises. These empty buildings often attract criminal activities, leading to significant repair and replacement costs.

3. The rising threat of metal theft

Metal theft remains a pressing concern, with the UK economy losing approximately £770 million annually due to this crime. Vacant properties are particularly susceptible, as thieves target materials like copper wiring and metal fixtures, causing extensive damage that far exceeds the value of the stolen items.

4. Increased risk of arson and fire damage

Unsecured vacant properties face a heightened risk of arson. The National Fire Chiefs Council estimates that arson and deliberate fire-setting cost the UK over £1.3 billion each year. Such incidents not only result in property loss but can also endanger neighbouring structures and lives.

5. Legal and cleanup costs from fly-tipping

Fly-tipping, or illegal dumping of waste, is on the rise, with vacant sites being prime targets. In 2020–21, councils across England and Wales reported 936,090 cases, costing them £49.8 million to clear. Property owners often bear the brunt of these cleanup costs, especially when hazardous materials are involved.

6. Reputational damage and decreased property value

A neglected property can quickly become an eyesore, attracting further criminal activity and reducing the overall appeal of the area. This deterioration can lead to decreased property values and may deter potential tenants or buyers, impacting your return on investment.

7. Mitigating the risks

While the statistics show some harsh realities of leaving properties unsecured, proactive measures can significantly reduce these risks. Implementing robust security protocols not only protects your asset but also preserves its value and ensures the safety of the surrounding community.

At Priority First Security, we understand the complexities involved in safeguarding vacant properties. Our services are designed to address the unique challenges these properties face, providing peace of mind to property owners.

The cost of leaving a vacant property unsecured extends beyond immediate financial losses. It encompasses legal liabilities, community impact, and long-term devaluation. As stewards of our investments and communities, it's imporatnt to recognise these risks and take decisive action to mitigate them.

If you're seeking guidance on securing your vacant property or wish to discuss tailored security solutions, feel free to reach out. We're here to help you protect what matters most.