Vacant Property Management in London
An empty building costs money every week it stands still, and most insurance policies quietly stop covering it after 30 days unless the void conditions are met.
Protect an empty property
Tell us the address type and how long it will be void and we will quote an inspection schedule.
The 30-day insurance trap
Most buildings policies restrict cover once a property is unoccupied beyond 30 days — typically down to fire, lightning, explosion and aircraft only, with escape of water, theft and malicious damage excluded.
Cover is usually conditional on documented inspections, systems being drained or heated, and the mail being cleared. We run the inspection regime the insurer requires and keep the evidence pack that a claim will be tested against.
What a void schedule covers
- Fortnightly or weekly documented inspections with photographs and a dated report
- Water systems drained down or heating held above freezing through winter
- Utilities read, capped or transferred, and standing charges reviewed
- Mail cleared, letterboxes sealed, and signs of occupation maintained
- Alarm, CCTV and key-holding, with a rapid response contact
- Empty rates mitigation and relief applications where the property qualifies
Getting it re-let or sold
A void schedule is an interim state, not an end. We run the works list, compliance certification and marketing preparation in parallel so the property is lettable the day the decision is made rather than three months later.
Frequently asked questions
How often should an empty property be inspected in London?
Most insurers require at least fortnightly internal inspections, and weekly for higher-value or higher-risk buildings. The policy wording governs — we work to whichever is stricter.
Can business rates be reduced on an empty commercial property?
Empty property relief gives three months for most commercial property and six for industrial, after which full rates apply. There are legitimate mitigation routes and we will tell you which apply to your building.
Do you handle properties in probate?
Yes. Probate and estate properties are a large part of our void work, including clearance, valuation access and coordination with solicitors.