How to secure empty properties and utilise them for the greater good
Ensuring the security of property is a primary concern for property owners and landlords. With rising incidences of property theft and vandalism, the need for effective property security measures cannot be overemphasised.
Property security encompasses measures taken to safeguard property against theft, damage, and unauthorised access. The most common forms of property security include CCTV surveillance, security guards, and alarm systems. These forms of security have their limitations and may not be the most effective in certain situations, particularly when dealing with an empty property.
Property guardian schemes are emerging as the optimal solution to protect an empty property from damage, vandalism, and theft. This solution involves placing guardians in an empty property to live in and maintain it. Property guardianship provides a cost-effective and reliable solution that ensures the property is secure and maintained. In addition to providing security, it also brings a sense of community to an area. Property guardianship schemes have been praised for reducing anti-social behaviour and illegal activities in areas with high vacancy rates.
According to a study by Empty Homes, there are over 216,000 empty homes in the UK. Property guardianship provides a sustainable solution to this issue by ensuring that empty properties are utilised for the greater good. It also provides affordable accommodation to people who may not be able to afford it otherwise, such as young professionals and key workers.
In addition to property guardianship, there are other effective forms of property security that home owners and landlords should consider exploring. CCTV surveillance, for instance, is a common form of property security that provides an additional layer of protection. It is particularly effective in deterring potential intruders and capturing footage of incidents that occur on the property.
Another form of security that has gained popularity in recent years is smart home technology. Smart home technology enables property owners to monitor their property remotely and detect unusual activity through smart cameras and sensors. The technology also allows homeowners to control access to their property and monitor energy usage, providing a more comprehensive security solution.
While these forms of security are effective, they are not without their limitations. CCTV surveillance may not be effective in deterring determined intruders, while smart home technology may not be practical for all properties due to high costs. In contrast, property guardianship provides a more flexible and affordable solution that can be adapted to suit the needs of any property owner.
Property security is an essential consideration for property owners, landlords, and real estate managers. Property guardianship is emerging as the optimal solution, particularly for empty properties. It not only provides reliable security but also ensures that empty properties are utilised sustainably and provides affordable accommodation. As the number of empty properties in the UK continues to rise, property guardianship will play an increasingly crucial role in ensuring that these properties are secure and utilised for the greater good.