Eight in 10 landlords call for clearer guidance as vacant-property risks rise
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Commercial property landlords are calling for clearer guidance on how to secure empty buildings as vacancy levels rise.
In a complex market, especially in the High Steet, the risk of commercial properties being empty is on the up, leaving them vulnerable to security risks such as vandalism and break-ins.
New research shows 83% of landlords expect vacant-property risks to further increase over the next two years, including 37% who expect them to increase significantly.
At the same time, 83% said government or industry bodies should provide clearer guidance on securing empty commercial buildings.
These latest insights came to light following a survey of 350 UK commercial property owners commissioned by SafeSite Facilities.
Karen Alabaster, executive at SafeSite Facilities said: “It’s clear that landlords need help and advice.
“There are so many issues that can occur when a property is empty, from deterioration of the building to being the victim of anti-social behaviour, trespass, squatting, theft, fly tipping or arson.
“It’s not only security and criminal activity to be aware of. Water damage or pest infestations can also be problematic if properties are not inspected regularly.
“If the government and industry bodies are not providing enough advice, seek out professional advice to establish the correct strategy to secure the building.”
Landlord anxiety around vacant property has not been helped by ongoing economic challenges in the UK and shop closures in the High Street.
In the SafeSite Facilities survey, landlords were asked whether vacancy levels had increased or decreased over the last year – and 76% said they had increased.
Karen added: “That is a significant figure that impacts a lot of people, especially when you consider the government says there are at least two million non-domestic properties in England alone. It will ring true with commercial property owners across the country.
“Keeping those properties safe when vacant should be a priority. It’s tempting to see spend on security and property inspections as money you may never get back. In fact, it’s a crucial investment capable of protecting the value of important assets.”
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Ends
Editors notes
Notes to editor
Fieldwork: Censuswide
Survey period: May 2026
Survey base: 350 UK commercial property owners aged 25+ with responsibility for security decisions relating to commercial properties.
For further information, please contact:
Fran Herring, Samantha Clark or Alex Hankinson
Midnight Communications
T: 01273 666 200
About SafeSite Facilities
SafeSite Facilities is a leader in construction, event site safety and security, which operates nationwide across the UK, providing an extensive range of products.
It delivers and installs barriers, traffic management, fencing and hoarding, alarms, CCTV and construction site safety products, for construction sites, major highways projects, events and festivals. Founded in 2009, SafeSite Facilities boasts numerous leading accreditations including Cyber Essentials Plus, Achilles UVDB, CHAS, CLOCS, Construction online Gold, FORS Gold, RISQS SafeContractor and SMAS. It is also accredited for ISO 9001(Quality), 14001 (Environment) and 45001 (OH&S), as well as Carbon Neutral Britain.
