Vacant Property Security Services – Protect Your Empty Building from Risk and Criminal Activity

Vacant properties are vulnerable. Without proper protection, they quickly become targets for criminal activity, anti-social behaviour, vandalism, and unauthorised access. Whether you’re a landlord, property manager or business owner, safeguarding your empty property or empty building is essential for maintaining value and reducing liability.

At The Lock Father, we are vacant property security specialists offering a full range of highly effective security services tailored to protect your premises. From temporary CCTV and security doors to manned guarding services and regular property inspections, we deliver visible security measures that act as a powerful deterrent against intruders and other threats.

Understanding the Risks to Vacant Properties

Empty buildings present a host of potential risks. A visible build up of post or rubbish signals a vacant site, attracting trespassers, criminal activity, and other serious security threats. Unsecured windows or access points can lead to theft, damage or even illegal use of the property.

Common vacant property threats include:

• Vandalism and graffiti

• Theft of materials or fittings

• Illegal occupation (e.g. squatting or cannabis farms)

• Use for anti-social behaviour or criminal activity

• Arson and structural damage

A security breach in your vacant property can significantly increase your insurance premiums and compromise future lettings or sales. That’s why our vacant property services are designed to provide both immediate protection and longer term solutions.

Our recent work demonstrates the effectiveness of our security services. For one empty property at high risk of vandalism and unauthorised access, we installed new locks on doors, repaired perimeter metal fencing, and secured all ground-floor windows with steel screens. Steel doors were also installed, each reinforced with three mortice locks for added strength. A monitored alarm was fitted to provide rapid alerts to any disturbance. These customised solutions helped our clients safeguard their building while meeting insurance conditions. We work closely with property owners to assess risk, recommend the right security systems, and handle full project management to ensure lasting protection.

Our Full Range of Vacant Property Security Services

We offer a complete suite of vacant property protection options, ensuring peace of mind for all clients, no matter the site type, size or location:

• Temporary CCTV & InView Detect Systems – detect intruders in real-time and alert our response team

• Security Doors & Physical Security Installations – protect entry points with steel doors, locks, and reinforced frames

• Manned Guarding Services & Dog Patrols – on-site personnel to deter and stop trespassers

• Alarm Systems & Monitoring – immediate alerts to unauthorised access or suspicious activity

• Boarding Up Windows & Securing Access Points – visible protection for entryways and glazing

• Regular Property Inspections & Risk Assessments – stay on top of threats and meet insurance requirements

Each of our property protection solutions is tailored to meet your specific requirements. Whether you need a short-term fix or a longer term solution, we offer a cost effective solution to securing your land, premises, or business site.

Why Choose The Lock Father?

• Over a decade of experience in protecting vacant properties across Essex

• Master Locksmiths Association approved

• CHAS and Safe Contractor certified for safety and compliance

• Trusted by enforcement agents, local authorities, and property owners

• Rapid response times and discreet service

We understand that every building, site, and client is unique. That’s why we don’t just install systems – we manage the entire process, from consultation and planning to implementation and regular follow-ups.

Whether you’re facing a short-term vacancy or managing a portfolio of empty buildings, our property security services offer the best solution for protecting your assets.

Secure Your Property with Confidence

Don’t wait for a break-in or act of vandalism to take action. Our team provides the perfect solution for vacant property security – protecting your investment and giving you complete peace of mind.

Call us today or complete our short form for a free quote. One of our specialists will assess your site and recommend the most cost effective and highly effective security measures to keep your property safe.

Our services are designed with you in mind.

Contact The Lock Father – your local vacant property security specialists Services.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to secure an empty property?

Securing an empty property requires a layered approach. This includes installing robust physical security such as steel doors and locks, fitting monitored alarm systems and temporary CCTV, boarding up vulnerable entry points like windows, and carrying out regular property inspections. Tailored vacant property security services help detect intruders and reduce the risk of damage, theft, or unauthorised access.

What are the risks of vacant or void property?

Vacant properties face a range of threats, including vandalism, theft, squatting, and arson. Without adequate protection, they can quickly become a magnet for anti-social behaviour or even be used for criminal activity. These risks also lead to rising insurance premiums and long-term repair costs for property owners.

How long can a property be left empty?

Most insurers consider a property vacant after 30 days of non-occupancy. Beyond this period, property owners may lose standard insurance cover unless specific vacant property protection is in place. Regular inspections, alarm systems, and security upgrades can help maintain coverage and protect the building.

What are the standard conditions for vacant possession?

Vacant possession typically requires that a property be free from people, belongings, and any legal right of occupancy. It must be handed over to the new owner or tenant in a condition where they can take immediate and exclusive possession. Ensuring the property is secure and access-controlled is part of good handover management.