Keeping troublemakers at bay

The UK property sector is going through some tough times. With so many vacated properties staying empty for long periods, property owners must find new and increasingly cost effective means of protecting their investments against squatters, urban explorers, damage and theft. This case study demonstrates how a disused hospital has successfully kept troublemakers at bay with a little help from SitexOrbis inspections.

We’re all familiar with the sight of public buildings that have lain vacant for so long that they have become playground for vandals, drug users and thieves. This was exactly the picture at a hospital in Chelmsford. Although half of the site housed the area’s maternity facility, the other half was vacated and shut down; a playground for the local gangs who had left it suffering from vandalism, damage and defects.

Prior to our instruction approximately 90% of the security was provided by another company. Following a customer referral, SitexOrbis took over the security of the six units.

  • Our initial inspection recommended several areas which would need improved security.
  • While work was agreed, weekly inspections made by our qualified surveyors, proved vital in keeping out troublemakers.

An inspector calls

The crucial role we play was never more clearly demonstrated than on a random weekly inspection, when our Regional Surveyor was onsite just as a breach was taking place. On approaching a unit he noticed a water leak and could hear noises coming from the building. Obvious signs of forced entry alerted our surveyor to the location of the two men who were stripping copper items from the property.

He immediately phoned for assistance and within 25 minutes the site was swarming with police, dogs and a helicopter. As the drama unfolded we ensured the neighbouring maternity unit was kept informed to minimise panic amongst the new and expectant mothers. Quick thinking in this scenario led to two arrests, and sent out a clear message to would-be intruders.

Above and beyond the call of duty

Our Surveyor wasn’t quite finished; he then:

  • Liaised with the caretaker ensuring that all damage was repaired, including shutting off water pipes that had been damaged in the break-in and had caused flooding.
  • Called in an emergency team to secure the building, and our surveyor.
  • Stayed until he confidently pronounced the property as no longer vulnerable.
  • Ensured swift follow up with the police and immediate completion paperwork, finally clocking off at 1am!

Ted Kenrick, Technical and Risk Solutions Manager at Aviva Risk Management Solutions Ltd, the property owner’s insurer, commented: “This emphasises the importance of conducting regular visits and inspections of unoccupied property by competent persons. There is no doubt that the quick thinking and diligence of SitexOrbis personnel has limited the amount of damage caused in this particular instance.”

Can we help you?

SitexOrbis has a dedicated inspection division. We know we can offer real, tangible help to our customers through our vigilance and extra level of care.

“Many owners of vacant property do not employ professional surveyors to assess the risks and define the most cost-effective approaches to vacant property security and surveillance. Our company’s expert security surveyors are able to recommend to any landlord the most cost-effective approaches to securing, maintaining and monitoring property, to mitigate financial and safety risks and so that it is in a suitable condition for letting as soon as a potential tenant comes along.”

Mark Cosh,

European Director,

SitexOrbis Limited.