Last Updated on February 19, 2025 by Alarm New England
Whether you own homes on different coasts, plan to travel for an extended period of time, or have ownership of a property you don’t plan on inhabiting any time soon, a vacant home presents its own set of security risks.
Property owners, managers, investors, and individual owners all know the challenge too well. Unoccupied buildings are often seen as an easy target for crime. Because of this, owners of a vacant space need to have the proper protection.
Whether you are dealing with a temporarily empty commercial space, a residential property between tenants, or a building awaiting renovation, getting the right protection measures in place – like an alarm system, cameras, and smoke/fire/flood sensors – is essential to prevent vandalism, theft, squatters and more.
Understanding the Risks of Vacant Properties
Empty properties face numerous risks that occupied buildings don’t typically encounter. These risks include:
- increased vulnerability to break-ins
- vandalism
- squatting
- unnoticed maintenance issues
Insurance companies often view vacant properties as high-risk assets, potentially leading to higher premiums or reduced coverage. This makes proper protection not just a security concern, but also a financial need.
Now, I think we’ve made the point clear. If you have a vacant home that is currently unprotected, you need to take action. Let’s begin the guide by talking about a few security measures you can take right away for a vacant house or building.
How To Protect Your Vacant Home: The Essential Security Measures
Securing a vacant property is not always easy and straightforward. Often, a multifaceted approach to protect vacant buildings is best.
The first and most obvious step is getting some sort of security if you don’t have it already.
This could be an alarm system, some cameras so you can monitor the property from afar, and of course sensors for smoke, flood and other environmental dangers that can do a number on a property while the owner is away.
Security systems today can be fully integrated, meaning your motion sensors, cameras, smoke and carbon detectors, and more can all be tied into one system. With professional monitoring from an experienced alarm company, a trained professional will respond to any and all signals from your system, responding quickly at times when you physically cannot.
Let’s break down each element of the best security system for vacant properties.
Element #1 – Professional Alarm Monitoring
Many property owners opt to work with a professional alarm monitoring company for their vacant property protection services.
These companies offer tailored security solutions. They evaluate the building’s current security setup, install whatever equipment is needed, and monitor the system, making sure any alarm signals are responded to, either by the property owner or by emergency personnel. This around the clock protection provides unmatched peace of mind for vacant property owners.
You might not be able to be present at your property at all times, but having 24/7 professional alarm monitoring? That’s the next best thing.
Element #2 – Cameras
Once alarm monitoring is established, the next best thing is security cameras, so you are able to have eyes on the property even when you are far away for extended periods – leaving the home vacant.
Modern home security camera setups are very easy to use due to internet connectivity and the convenience of a mobile app. Most cameras work off of wi-fi and tie directly into a simple app on your smartphone. All you need to do is log in, and you’ll be able to review video footage, even live feeds, from anywhere in the country (or world) – as long as you have internet access or cell service.
Monitoring And Protecting Made Easy And Convenient
Doorbell cameras are a great solution to get visibility on the building’s exterior while you’re not there. Vacant properties can become easy targets for crooks. But the mere presence of a doorbell camera might work to deter intruders entirely. Might as well go after another home that does not have visible security.
While alarm monitoring offers peace of mind, cameras enhance it even further. They let you see – when you otherwise could not.
While you might be hesitant to pick up a monthly cost in order to protect a property you won’t even be living or working at, we’re here to tell you that it’s a smart investment in the long run. And that’s not just because we’ve been protecting homes and businesses in New England for over 50 years. The price of theft, burglary, flood or fire on an unmonitored home or business could end up being a financial disaster. You’ll be grateful you have security at your vacant building when an accident does strike.
And for even more savings, insurance providers usually mandate certain security requirements for vacant property coverage. Working with professional protection services can help ensure compliance and make sure you are getting the best rates.
Element #3 – Fire and Environmental Protection While You’re Away
As part of an integrated system, you can get alerts when smoke detectors are set off, carbon monoxide is detected, or even if the temperature in the building gets above or below a certain point. You will be notified so you can respond accordingly, whether that’s dispatching the fire department to take care of any potential fires swiftly, or simply utilizing a smart thermostat to turn up the heat remotely so the pipes don’t freeze. All of this makes the vacant home safer, and managing it more convenient.
There are also flood sensors which can detect leaks or elevated water in the home. This is especially useful in areas prone to flooding and the alerts can save you from costly water damage at your uninhabited property.
By Following These Security Measures, You Can Protect Your Vacant Property Today
By implementing comprehensive vacant property protection measures, property owners can significantly reduce risks while maintaining their asset’s value. The key lies in choosing the right combination of security devices and smart technology aimed at ease of use to make your life easier dealing with a vacant property from afar. With proper protection in place, vacant properties can remain secure and well-maintained until they’re ready for their next use.
For help with securing your vacant home or business during your time away – call today – (857) 445-4010
