What is a void property check?

A void property check is simply a check on an empty building and reporting any findings back to the client.

Why would I need to check a building? It’s all bordered up! It’s empty?

At times it is requested by insurance companies and it is generally good practice that a vacant building is checked to ensure no breach or damage has occurred. No minors are using it as a playground, no squatters on site or persons using it for any illegal purposes.

There are other factors to mitigate loss, such as ensuring no leaks or emergency maintenance is required.

Occupiers liability Act 1984

Something often overlooked and misunderstood is the Occupiers Liability Act 1984. You have a legal duty of care and if you have not fully taken steps to mitigate you can be held liable should anyone be injured on your premises. An everyday example, a door or window has been breached allowing easy access to a child or any person for that matter, who enters and hurts, liability can be with the owner.

IN A NUTSHELL

It is good practice to do void property checks and ensure you mitigate any potential liability and loss.