Knowledge Base

Most of us know of a neglected, abandoned building in our local area, usually one that’s boarded up and looking distinctly in need of a makeover. But across the world, some of these ‘local’ abandoned properties deserve a closer look, as examples of iconic architecture and ancient civilizations… Machu Picchu – Peru Now a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the acknowledged Seven Wonders of the World, the breath-taking but forsaken buildings of Machu Picchu, high up in the…

Whether for living in, renting out or refurbishing to sell, buying a vacant property, can be a great investment which also benefits local communities, by bringing empty and possibly even neglected properties back into use. It can also be a convenient way to purchase property without getting caught up in exhaustive property chains or waiting around for vendors to move out. With the Telegraph reporting that the number of empty properties in the UK has almost doubled in 20 years,…

Leaving any property vacant can be risky, but if your property’s commercial, then there are additional risk factors to consider. So what are all the risks you need to look out for, and how can you protect your empty commercial property, your investment – and the commercial community? Risk #1: Theft and vandalism Theft from empty properties is a prime reason for break-ins and commercial properties are no exception, particularly as they are seen as a profitable target for metal…

Your property’s going to be sitting vacant and you’re well aware of the risks involved! So, you’ve closed everything up and secured it against possible intrusion and damage – job done! Or is it? In fact, securing your vacant property adequately is only the first step in protecting it. Any empty premises must be checked regularly and not realising, or acting upon the need for empty property inspections puts both your property and yourself at further risk. The risk of…

Back in 2014, it was estimated that there could be between around 4 and 6 million CCTV cameras in both private and public use across the UK (BSIA CCTV video). Whether installed on private properties, commercial spaces or business premises, these numerous CCTV systems would have been installed with two primary operational uses in mind – to deter and to secure. CCTV facilitates these by: Being a visible presence (and therefore deterrent) on properties; Being available as a monitored service,…

2019’s Notting Hill Carnival takes place over the bank holiday weekend, Sat 24th to  Mon 26th August 2019. As the largest street festival in Europe, this annual event has been running for over 50 years, offering a great spectacle and fun experience for London locals and visitors alike. However, if you live locally or own a business in the West London streets and neighbouring areas affected by the carnival, the event can also present a whole procession of problems! Be…

In this third and final post of our series updating you on the risks and rights relating to squatters and your vacant property, the focus is on preventing squatters from getting in. See the first two posts here: Our first post addresses what “squatters rights” are, what adverse possession is and other common questions about squatters. Our second post explores official eviction protocol for legally removing squatters from private and commercial property In all cases, whether the property is commercial…

If you have a vacant property, one of your major concerns will be the threat of squatters. In this three part series, SafeSite Security Solutions consider the most frequently asked questions about squatters, how to prevent them and how to remove them, starting with that concern every owner of an empty property has: what exactly are squatters’ rights and what are your own rights, as the owner of an empty property? Read the following two posts by following these links:…