A vacant property contract firm has re-issued a ‘Top Ten Tips’ checklist seeking to save people, businesses and organisations the costly effects that the current freeze can have on vacant properties.
Simon Alderson, VPS’ Commercial Director, says: “It might seem obvious to recommend turning off your water mains if your property is empty, but around 20 per cent of property insurance claims are due to water leakages and burst pipes. I hope this checklist will prompt both businesses and people with empty properties to avoid the expensive and unpleasant clear-up of the aftermath of a flood in their vacant properties.”
Leaks from a small burst or fractured pipe can release thousands of gallons of water if left unnoticed. The average insurance claim is an estimated £25,000 but costs can reach £100,000 or more for water damage to commercial properties.
The number of empty shops in UK high streets has reached a new high of over 11pc; and there are over 700,000 vacant homes, it is estimated. Mr Alderson says: “Our experience has taught us that prevention really is better than cure. In the recent cold snap we had calls about water damage from storerooms to studios, from hotels to public houses. Whilst we can provide a ‘clean and clear’ service, we’d much prefer empty properties were made safe and secure from weather damage in the first place. And a property that’s been protected is more likely to be re-occupied sooner when new tenants are found.”
In addition to turning off the water supply to an empty property, the checklist also recommends:
– The mains water tap or stopcock is securely locked to prevent vandals from re-starting the flow of water, and water flow detectors installed;
– The water system is drained down to prevent frozen pipes, and additionally to reduce the potential build up of Legionella and other bacteria in stagnant water;
– Roofing and guttering is checked for defects, and security measures are in place to prevent metal theft (which can lead to water damage); and
– Other utilities are turned off such as gas and electricity.
The Top Ten Tips checklist is available to download for free from – www.vpspecialists.co.uk/winter
