Protecting Your
Unoccupied Almshouse
Unoccupied Almshouses
One of the biggest challenges for an Almshouse owner is protecting their property when it becomes unoccupied. An empty premises is more susceptible to certain types of loss or damage and for a charity this could be especially devastating. Some examples of loss or damage to be aware of are:
- Fire Damage caused by a faulty electrical installation or arson
- Water damage caused by a burst pipe for example
- Vandalism, malicious damage, graffiti
- Theft – damage to the property itself and its contents
- Squatters – when someone deliberately enters property without permission and lives there, or intends to live there
Early Detection
Early detection of any potential issues, deterring potential intruders and managing unlawful entry to the property is iimportant and there are a number of things you can do.
There should be regular visits to the property to check on things. Some insurers may stipulate a time frame in which to do this, and a formal record should be kept of such visits. As well as checking no damage has occurred, it is also an opportunity to mitigate any further damage should an incident occur. Any such damage should be reported to your Insurer or Broker at the earliest opportunity and to the police if a crime has taken place.
Examples of How You Can Protect Your Unoccupied Almshouse:
- Turn off electricity, gas and water supplies at the mains and drain down all water systems (in some instances, you may be asked to keep the heating system on, particularly during the winter months to prevent burst pipes)
- Remove all waste
- Inspect the property internally and externally every 7 days and keep a record of each visit.
- Ensure that all protection and security devices are in full working order, activated and maintained
- If the water system cannot be drained, ensure the heating is left on at no less than 7°C (Please check this with the insurer as minimum temperatures to vary)
- All accumulated post must be removed on each visit (or the letterbox sealed)
- Always keep your insurance company informed of any changes in circumstance
- It is advisable to check that keys have been recalled and if not possible, consider changing the locks to prevent any unauthorised entry or access into the building.
It is important to ensure the boundary is secure. This could be done by putting into force a maintenance plan to keep safe any perimeter fences and to keep vegetation tidy. Security lighting could also be used to assist in deterring intruders from accessing the building.
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Examples of What to Look Out for When Inspecting the Almshouse Charity Property:
- Tampering of security measures – such as attempts to disable alarm systems or CCTV
- Rubbish accumulation or fly-tipping – this can be a potential fire and health hazard
- Leaks and weather damage – winter preparation tips (insert link to blog article Almshouse-Winter-Preperation-Advice/)
- Property maintenance issues – that could worsen and result in loss if not rectified
- Anti-social behaviour such as graffiti or vandalism
It may be appropriate to board up any accessible doors and windows or ensure main entry doors are secured by appropriate lcoks, such as a five-lever mortice deadlock to British Standard 3621 or similar.
If there is an alarm in place it may be required to be in operation, maintained and inspected. A temporary alarm system, CCTV or security service could be considered for larger premises.
Please contact your Insurance Broker as soon as the property becomes unoccupied. Most policies will have terms that apply and possible cover changes that come into force when a property becomes empty.
Almshouse Charity Insurance
At Brown & Brown, we understand that every Almshouse is different, and that’s why we have put together a friendly, specialist Almshouse Insurance team. They will take the time to listen and can help protect it with our comprehensive insurance solutions.
If the unexpected should happen, we have a friendly UK based in-house claims team ready to provide prompt and specialist service.
For quote today, call Brown & Brown at 01458 772 781 and we will find insurance cover to suit your needs.