Empty property security tips for landlords

There are likely to be times when your rental property is empty. Landlords might experience a void period due to maintenance work on the property, or there might be a gap between new tenants moving in and old ones leaving.

During these periods, consider how to keep your rental investment safe. To help provide you with some ideas, we’ve put together the following empty property security tips.

You might want to inspect the property regularly, even if it’s just for peace of mind. The longer an issue goes unnoticed, the worse it could become. Each property will have different needs, so think about yours.

Check all locks

Inspect the locks on windows, external doors, garages, and sheds. Even if the doors look shut and there are no clear signs of a break-in, take a closer look. If you see signs of scratches or the lock is coming away from the door, then you may want to consider replacing it.

Make it part of your routine to check everywhere is locked securely before leaving the property after an inspection.

Maintain burglar alarms

If you have installed a burglar alarm, check it’s still functioning. It may make all the difference if someone attempts to break in and can deter those tempted to try.

Review any CCTV footage

If you have cameras installed, monitor the footage. Even if you haven’t noticed anything out of the ordinary, you never know what might have been caught on camera. For example, a potential burglar might have stopped by to check the locks and look through the windows for valuables. Any potential pest problems might also be caught on camera.

Empty properties can be more susceptible to the risk of a break-in than homes that are occupied. There are certain methods that might help to prevent this.

Leave lights on

Leaving a couple of lights on can help to give the impression that someone is home. If you can’t visit the property often, consider setting up a system for having the lights on a timer. You could even invest in smart bulbs, which can be controlled remotely by an app on your phone.

Don’t leave signs that the house is unoccupied

One factor to consider is the build-up of post if you don’t get it redirected. A pile on the floor by the letterbox could indicate that no one is living there. Temporarily sealing the letterbox and installing an external post box with a lock and key might also help.

A parked car on the driveway can give the impression that someone is home. Consider inviting neighbours to use your driveway if it’s empty.

Finding suitable insurance for an empty property is important, as unoccupied homes can be more susceptible to some risks.

Check with your current provider whether your insurance covers periods of unoccupancy and for how long. It’s possible your policy will be restricted if the property is empty for too long. Get in touch with them or check your policy documents to help avoid being caught out.

As each property can have different needs, the steps you take should not be limited to our suggestions. However, we hope you find our empty property security tips helpful.

If you need Unoccupied Property Insurance, get an online quote to see what we can offer.

The sole purpose of this article is to provide guidance on the issues covered. This article is not intended to give legal advice, and, accordingly, it should not be relied upon. It should not be regarded as a comprehensive statement of the law and/or market practice in this area. We make no claims as to the completeness or accuracy of the information contained herein or in the links which were live at the date of publication. You should not act upon (or should refrain from acting upon) information in this publication without first seeking specific legal and/or specialist advice. Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers Limited trading as Just Landlords accepts no liability for any inaccuracy, omission or mistake in this publication, nor will we be responsible for any loss which may be suffered as a result of any person relying on the information contained herein. FP1491-2022