According to statistics published by the Empty Homes Agency, there were an estimated 697,055 vacant properties in 2008. Obviously, as a landlord you hope your property does not become such a statistic, but given the vagaries of the rental market, periods when your property remains unoccupied are almost inevitable.

Unoccupied properties pose a number of risks, Viagra Jelly you stop by to inspect the property, and if possible have a neighbour remove the mail if it builds up in the days between your property inspections.

Overgrown front gardens and vegetation around the property are obvious indicators of an empty property, so keep the lawn mowed and vegetation trimmed back. If you cannot or do not want to do this yourself, hire a gardener to take care of any necessary work. Additionally, if you notice any graffiti on the property during your regular checks, remove it immediately, Kamagra and tidy up any rubbish that accumulates in the garden or area surrounding the property. After a snowfall, make a point to clear snow off the driveway and paths leading to the house, otherwise the property will look unlived in. Furthermore, by keeping the driveway and paths clear, you also reduce the risk of liability, should someone slip and injure themselves when approaching the house.

Fire, gas and water safety – Flammable or combustible materials and items in and around the property that can be conveniently removed should be removed in order to reduce the risk of fire damage, and as an extra precaution unplug appliances, such as washing machines, refrigerators, ovens and toasters. If you are not expecting any mail delivery during the unoccupied period, seal the letterbox closed to prevent vandals or would-be arsonists from pushing destructive or lit materials through the box. If a fire alarm system is installed in the property, switch it on and check it periodically to ensure it remains operational.

Depending on the length of time you expect the property to remain unoccupied, the time of year and what your insurer requires, there are various measures you can take to prevent water or gas disasters. Either drain the water system completely (seek the advice of an experienced plumber if necessary), drain any tanks containing flammable materials, including taking precautions against residual vapours, and shut off the gas supply at the mains. Alternatively, if you choose not drain the water system, turn off the water to individual fixtures, including sinks, toilets and washing machines, and do not shut off the property’s heat source. Instead, particularly during the months between October and April when it is colder, keep your thermostat set to at least five degrees to prevent the pipes from freezing or bursting. Another benefit to keeping the heating system operational during winter months is that it will help prevent dampness or mould from developing.

Notify appropriate persons – In addition to letting your insurer know that the property is unoccupied, consider notifying the local police and fire department of the property’s vacant status, and give your contact information in case of an emergency. If you know any of the neighbours, inform them that the property is unoccupied and ask them to call you if they notice any problems or suspicious activity.

Author Bio: If you are a landlord and need landlords property insurance for your buy to let property then CIA Insurance can deliver everything you need for peace of mind.

Category: Real Estate
Keywords: landlords property insurance,unoccupied property insurance,buy to let insurance