News & Updates

  If you’re a commercial property manager or a landlord, there’s one thing we don’t necessarily need to tell you but feel like we should: At the end of a tenancy, as the last person leaves the building, without robust security measures waiting to take over, it could become a target. Almost immediately, news of its unoccupied…

Commercial tenants have various rights and legal protections – but these differ significantly from those relevant to residential leaseholders. It is important for both landlord and tenant to have full oversight of their rights, responsibilities and obligations within a rental contract to avoid any disputes or misunderstandings. Landlords should ensure their commercial rental contracts cover…

Bear with us. Before we tell you about securing your unoccupied retail premises, we need to throw some facts and figures in your general direction – and they’re pretty stark. According to the British Retail Consortium (BRC), overall shop vacancy rates in the UK for the first quarter of 2023 were at 13.8%. And, the…

Plans to switch off the conventional, copper-wired PSTN phone infrastructure were first announced in 2017, with all transitions to fibre-based and digital phone lines expected to be complete by 2025 – when the network will be deactivated – but what will this mean for your security and fire systems? While most businesses and residential users…

Finding that squatters have gained unlawful entry to your property and have begun living there without consent can be stressful – with untold damage to the fabric of the building, draining utilities if these are connected, and often stripping assets such as radiators and leaving hazardous debris. Properties that are targeted by squatters commonly attract…

This article about CCTV may surprise you. Why? Because when it comes to the legal requirements and laws surrounding CCTV for commercial use, there are more restrictions and rules than you may realise. Many more, in fact. Indeed, without the right CCTV policies, procedures and strict compliance, you could find yourself on the wrong side…

Managing Director of the Clearway Group, Ronnie Coutts MBE, was recently interviewed by I Love Claims (ILC), a community of over 6,500 like-minded individuals and businesses that work within the Motor, Home or ClaimsTech claims insurance supply chain. During the interview Mr Coutts was quizzed on issues such as which areas of Clearway offer the…

Construction site security is a gritty and complex issue. They’re expensive to run, they’re constantly vulnerable and at risk – and they remain that way until the very end of the project. More than anything, construction sites need to be kept secure, particularly as the criminal underworld is conspiring against the sector all the time….

Fire detection systems are modern, advanced alternatives to conventional fire safety measures, which largely replace manual call points, relying on somebody noticing smoke, fire or heat and raising the alarm. Automation has greatly improved the speed and efficiency of fire detection, ensuring that any signs of fire are recognised and communicated immediately, even when a…

Jersey barriers are dense, strong, specifically engineered concrete blocks used extensively in highway safety. If you’ve driven along a motorway or A-road and seen an interlocking line of concrete barriers forming a blockade between lanes or between the road and the verge, they are almost definitely Jersey barriers. The primary application is to separate lanes…

Insurance risk can vary significantly between businesses and buildings while making a big difference to the insurance premiums you are offered – and the number of insurance providers willing to extend coverage. Whether you own a company, a plot of land or an investment property, any insurance subject that is considered high-risk will be trickier…

If your commercial property is vacant, even for a short while before the new tenants move in, you’ll be aware of the risks involved. You’ve made sure that everything is closed up tight, like a clam shell. You have CCTV and an alarm in place, so you’ve protected the building against possible damage or intrusion….

Property owners commonly need to manage a wide variety of risks, whether they own or manage a commercial, residential, investment, or industrial property. Those risks might relate to security, liability, environmental hazards, loss of value or the threat of tenant disputes or non-payments impacting their profitability.   Risk management is a prevalent concern, where property…

If you own or manage a vacant commercial property, or if it’s empty outside regular working hours, its security may always be on your mind. It may even keep you awake into the wee, small hours. Not least if you live or work some distance away from your premises.  We touch on the high risks…

With the clocks being turned back, daylight hours getting shorter and the shops starting to stock Christmas decorations – the winter is nearly upon us. But have you thought about your security? The winter months bring several safety concerns and security risks to empty sites, vacant properties and building sites due to the darker nights…

The Clearway Group (“Clearway”) is delighted to announce the acquisition of Secure Empty Property Limited (“SEP”). Headquartered in London, Clearway is a leading commercial security services provider specialising in protecting people, property and assets. Clearway delivers solutions that are tailored to its customers’ needs, utilising an extensive range of specialist services integrated with market-leading technology….

Landlords should take care to ensure that they understand how and when it is appropriate to implement CRAR. But what exactly is CRAR? Commercial rent arrears recovery (CRAR) is a valuable law that came into effect in April 2014. It enables commercial landlords to collect rent owned to them by taking goods from the property….

Hiring on-site security is an excellent way to reinforce your current security systems and introduce a visible, robust presence to deter opportunist criminals and reduce your risks of break-ins, thefts and antisocial behaviour. But what is the best way to hire a security guard?   Did you know that there was a spike in security…

The 2023 rural crime report makes for surprising reading, with a 22% increase in rural theft recorded between 2022 and 2023. However, this increase in crime will come as no surprise to farmers who are bearing the brunt of costly machine theft and the severe disruption caused as a result.  While general crime rates tend…

Trauma cleaning and extreme cleaning are highly specialised services. In many respects, they go above and beyond our natural human call of duty, not least because it’s grim work, and those who do it are highly trained and made of stern stuff. As you can imagine, therefore, this article covers the distasteful, sadder and often…

From Mucky to Immaculate – Cleaning Up. Everything You Need to Know About Waste Clearance and Fly Tipping Services In this article, we’ll take you through the different types of commercial waste that exist – trust us, there is more to this than you may think – and address the disagreeable issue of fly-tipping. And,…

You’ve made the wise decision to invest in high-quality business CCTV or alarm systems to safeguard your property. But what comes next? When it comes to monitoring your newly installed security system, you have a few options: stick with your current supplier, handle monitoring in-house, or consider the advantages of outsourcing this critical task to…

Void properties – as opposed to vacant premises – are those without tenants, normally during the period of time between when a previous tenant leaves and a new rental agreement is entered into between the landlord and a new tenant. There are several challenges associated with a void property, not least because rental units between…

In this article, we’re all about CCTV, but not the “normal” kind you may already know. Depending on your needs, mobile CCTV towers could be the ideal, peace-of-mind solution for your commercial property. Here’s how they work, and why these standalone towers are making the most of today’s latest technology – with great effect. CCTV…

Whatever its size, layout or location, no doubt you know that as soon as your commercial property becomes vacant, it will flag up its empty status to would-be intruders, vandals, thieves and others with harmful intent. Most likely, you have considered several security options. Equally, you may already have them in place. However, security guards…

Rent arrears are a common issue for commercial landlords, whether a tenant is persistently late, has several weeks of unpaid rent or is experiencing significant financial difficulties. Knowing how to react can be complex, where a landlord is unlikely to be able to evict a tenant following one late payment – but may need to…

When a tenant is due to vacate a property, there are plenty of tasks the landlord must complete to ensure that the end of tenancy goes smoothly. Preparing for the handover well in advance will preempt any potential delays or misunderstandings, ensuring the property has been thoroughly cleaned, the keys handed back, and any repairs…

Providing notice to a commercial tenant may seem simple – but it is essential landlords correctly give notice to ensure they end a lease legally and in accordance with the terms and clauses included within the rental agreement. A commercial landlord may wish to remove a tenant for many reasons, from wanting to sell the…

As a landlord, business owner or facilities manager, it’s likely that you have invested a considerable amount of time, effort and money into your property. Whether you’re involved in a retail premises, a warehouse, factory, or any other commercial building, if it’s empty – large or small, it’s vulnerable. In fact, according to the FSB*,…

Getting In… Is Easy Imagine. If you were a burglar targeting an empty commercial property, what would be the best way to gain entry, would you think? No, we’ve not lost our minds. Bear with us. Put yourself in the shoes of an intruder. Perhaps you’d find somewhere out of sight – a hidden rear…

If a landlord wishes to bring a lease to an end for breach of covenants that don’t include rent then a Section 146 Notice of the Law and Property Act 1925 is served on the leaseholder prior to the commencement of forfeiture proceedings. Example situations where landlords may be entitled to serve a Section 146…

Did you know that around 60% of all break-ins and thefts happen during the night (view source) so it’s not enough to keep your site or property protected during the day when your site is at its most active.  Yes, security systems provide protection, surveillance and alerts whenever unauthorised activity takes place – but what…

Security management is a process in which businesses and property owners audit all of their assets, risk-assess the threats to security affecting people, buildings, inventory and equipment and take proactive steps to ensure their strategy is always sufficient and up to date. Effective security management includes ongoing monitoring to determine where certain parts of your…

Commercial landlords can be severely impacted by tenants who continually fail to pay their rent or fall into ongoing arrears. Many landlords rely on their rental income to cover the costs of running or financing rental properties and may need to act quickly if they have a tenant who does not seem willing to make…

Evicting a commercial tenant can take time – but using a professional enforcement agency is essential to avoid unnecessary delays. The financial impacts of a long and drawn-out eviction process can also add further pressure when landlords are dealing with ongoing unpaid rent and the costs of pursuing legal action. The correct steps – and…

Physical security measures are diverse and varied. They provide the assurance that a property or site is suitably safeguarded against illegal entry, theft and trespass. The correct actions depend on the nature and layout of the premise, such as the size of the perimeter, the number of potential entry points, and areas of greatest risk….

If you own or manage a commercial property that becomes vacant, concrete barrier blocks may not necessarily spring to mind above other essential security measures. At least, not immediately. You may not even have considered them a thing. Yet, they are a thing. Quite a big thing, actually. Concrete Barrier Blocks – In a Nutshell…

While we’re not in the business of alarmist statistics, we know that the facts speak for themselves.  In the previous 12 months, figures from the 2022 Commercial Victimisation Survey show from gov.uk show that an estimated 28% of business premises experienced some sort of crime, with 9% of this percentage being victims of burglary and…

CCTV surveillance is an established way to reduce the risks of break-ins, thefts and illegal intrusions. The use of CCTV itself is nothing new, however, all too often, the footage is not reviewed in real-time, meaning that business owners can only rely on their surveillance systems to try and identify intruders after the fact. Cameras…

Warehouses are exposed to myriad safety risks and security threats, where prospective criminals will be well aware that the building is used to store inventory, materials, equipment and tools – and when the premises is empty overnight or at the weekend. As a business or warehouse owner, you’ll know that warehouse theft can really disrupt…

We’ve put together one of our “essentials” blogs: full of clear, jargon-free information about keeping the buildings you own or manage, the assets in them, and the people who may access them safe and free from harm. Welcome to vacant property security – streamlined. Your Building is at Risk You know already that your vacant…

One of our most frequently asked questions is ‘how does CCTV monitoring work?’ CCTV monitoring is as the name suggests, a service whereby security cameras installed on your site, land or property are watched by trained staff in anticipation of any criminal activity. Having a CCTV system is said to reduce crime by as much as…

Rent arrears refer to unpaid debts, where a tenant has failed to pay the rent owing for their rented property. This type of arrear is known as priority debt because rental arrears of two months or more can be a legally justifiable reason to evict a tenant in the worst-case scenario and where all other…

The notice a commercial landlord needs to give their tenant depends on the structure of the tenancy – a lot relies on the clauses and features within the lease agreement. With the introduction of the Renters’ Reform Bill in May 2023, many landlords are assessing their rights and obligations, but this new piece of legislation is focused…

Every tenant has statutory rights and protections against unfair treatment by their landlord – but these are substantially different between residential and commercial tenants. That said, every business premise landlord should be conscious of their tenant’s rights and entitlements to ensure they manage the lease agreement and other processes correctly, lawfully and according to the…

Eviction processes for commercial tenants occupying a business property differ from those related to residential tenancies, and landlords have varied options and responsibilities whether they wish to end a commercial tenancy early or evict a tenant. So how can you evict a commercial tenant?  In most cases, an eviction occurs because the tenant has failed…

When we think of a security guard, we often think about the physical aspects required for the role. Whilst this is important, physicality is only one element of a security officer’s job. In fact, a good security guard will know that physical intervention is only necessary as a last resort. If you are considering hiring…

CCTV (closed circuit television) is a well-known and extensively used measure to record surveillance footage. However, even the most technologically advanced CCTV cameras have limited benefits without the provision for remote monitoring, where they become a passive rather than a reactive method to improve security and prevent criminal activity. Monitoring services provided by Clearway’s NSI…

According to Statista, there were over 300,000 people employed in ‘security occupations’ in 2022. They’re trained and licensed to carry out a number of activities in the defence of the public, property and personnel – and they’re very effective in doing so! We know that they’re an important part of our economy and work closely with…

Security guards are licensed to carry out a number of duties such as inspecting and patrolling premises regularly, monitoring entrances and securing exits and entry points and preventing crime. However, it’s inevitable that a security guard may have to get physical in the event of a security breach – but can security guards physically touch…

Clearway provides cutting-edge body-worn and helmet-worn cameras, with a growing demand for real-time site management, robust health and safety enforcement and liability protection. Helmet cameras are one of the most popular models, with lightweight casing and excellent visibility, without impeding the wearer’s range of movement. These slimline cameras simply clip onto a PPE-compliant helmet. In…

Concrete blocks are one of the most versatile and robust structural assets used for countless applications, from retaining walls to flood defences, physical perimeter boundaries and preventative security. But what are L8 blocks? An L8 or LG8 block is a short-hand abbreviation for an interlocking block configured in a standardised size. As the name suggests,…

Security is fundamental for every commercial building, whether a retail store, warehouse, factory, storage space or office. Enhancing security can significantly reduce the potential for break-ins, thefts and vandalism while reassuring your workforce and potentially reducing your insurance premiums. The challenge for many businesses is that security covers such a broad scope it can be…

Clearway Group and Core Highways have agreed terms for a joint Memorandum of Understanding which will see the two companies work together on the development of new and existing traffic related products to keep operatives and road users safer – not just on their own works, but for the wider industry good.

CCTV towers are a flexible security solution, available for rapid deployment in countless settings. Functionality such as solar, wind and battery power enable CCTV towers to be used in remote and outdoor environments and for temporary or long-term applications. The visible nature of a CCTV tower means it acts as an effective deterrent for prospective…

The Clearway Group Limited (Clearway) has announced the appointment of Peter Eglinton as its Executive Chairman. Peter will take over the day-to-day running of the business from Ian Quinlan, Group Chief Executive, who has led Clearway’s growth and development over the past six years. Peter brings with him 20 years of experience leading six disparate…

CCTV towers and mast-mounted cameras share much of the same functionality. They are erected at height to cover larger areas, can be equipped with advanced PTZ capabilities and movement sensors, and have autonomous battery and/or solar-energy power systems to remain independent from mains power. However, the contrast is in the duration of use and the…

Concrete barriers are used in many scenarios where security, workforce safety, vehicular access and access management are essential. Interlinking precast concrete blocks can create a continuous blockade or be positioned in intervals to restrict vehicles and unauthorised visitors from trespassing or entering unsafe zones such as highway repair areas. As an effective, immovable and physical…

Finding out that squatters have occupied an empty property can be difficult to address. Landlords, residential homeowners and commercial property owners may find it complex to evict squatters quickly and return the premise to good condition. The ideal approach is to protect an empty building from intrusions, preventing unauthorised individuals from gaining access and reducing…

Almost every job has at least some risk, but in environments where the potential for injury or accident is high, employers and managers are responsible for issuing PPE that adheres to professional standards, quality controls and workplace legislation. Occupations with elevated risks, such as positions in construction (see construction site security), highways (see highway security)…

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a crucial aspect of site management in any construction setting, as one of the sectors with the highest volume of annual reportable incidents that could be reduced, and in some cases prevented, with the correct usage of PPE. PPE refers to any device, item of clothing, equipment or accessory that…

PPE stands for personal protective equipment and refers to a broad range of clothing, tools and devices you may require to perform your role safely, effectively and following industry regulations. Employers and managers issue staff with PPE to adhere to risk assessments and health and safety obligations, normally to minimise risk or eliminate a hazard….

There’s nothing new about people’s fascination with exploring abandoned and derelict buildings, but the growing trend in posting videos of their exploits online is a problem. The videos encourage others, many of them young people, to set their own challenges of discovering and exploring. Sadly, they often explore dangerous buildings, putting themselves at risk and…

A commercial property inspection is a thorough evaluation of a commercial property by a trained and licensed professional, typically conducted before a property sale, lease, or transfer. The purpose of a commercial property inspection is to identify any existing or potential issues with the property, including structural defects, building code violations, and environmental hazards. The…

When we consider the risk points of a property, whether commercial or residential, we might believe that covert entry routes, concealed rear entrances and scalable fences are primary factors. However, crime figures show that the vast majority of burglars simply enter through the front door. Steel security screens and doors are a vital, physical preventative…

Body cameras can be used as a pre-emptive measure to protect the safety of workers, including security guards, construction teams and road workers, reducing the potential for incidents or abuse and keeping a clear record of any occurrences. But how effective is a body camera for security, and what difference will it make in the…

Helmet cameras are becoming increasingly common, worn by construction workers and highways work teams exposed to threats, abuse and risks, alongside safety helmet cams for motorbike riders and cyclists – but are they legal?. These cameras have various functions, such as auto-recording, rolling storage capacity, cloud-based video uploads, and even auto-redacting, where footage is transmitted…

In the United Kingdom, the laws regarding squatters have undergone significant changes in recent years. The legal status of squatters is now more clearly defined, and property owners have more options for dealing with them. What are the squatter laws in the UK? Under current UK law, squatters have limited rights and can be evicted…

Police forces increasingly use body cameras to log incidents, capture exchanges, and provide valuable evidence that can be used in a prosecution – but they are not mandatory, nor are they used by every officer. Many UK police forces are now issuing officers with body cameras, primarily patrol officers. Other road-based police use dashboard cams…

Concrete barriers are versatile and cost-effective, used in countless environments to protect people, vehicles and assets. Jersey barriers are a specific type of concrete block used extensively in road safety and traffic management, with one block weighing 1,450 kg. The advantage of precast concrete is that it is extremely heavy and immovable, resistant to all…

When tenants find themselves unable to pay rent, landlords and affected parties must act fast. This article offers a range of solutions aimed at making the situation manageable for both sides. Even if your tenants cannot pay rent due to financial hardship, there are still ways for you as a landlord to protect the rental…

There are countless benefits to wearing a visible helmet-mounted or body-worn camera, not least protecting yourself from the risk of violence, recording a real-time account of an incident and having evidence to back up future liability or insurance claims. Body cameras are used throughout the security, policing, and emergency response sectors. They are also worn…

Commercial property deals have collapsed to their lowest level in more than a decade as investors reckon with higher interest rates, the prospect of a lengthy recession and the fallout from the Liz Truss “mini” Budget. The £7bn of deals transacted in the final three months of last year was the lowest quarterly total since…

The Christmas construction shutdown provided a much-welcomed break from the anxiety and uncertainty faced by the construction industry over the last year. Sadly, when those based in construction find themselves on the wrong side of the holiday high this January, they are likely to see a bleak immediate future, as the ongoing issues from 2022 negatively impact…

Commercial buildings and workplaces must have a fire alarm system or alternative fire detection system in place to raise an alert if the facility needs to be evacuated and identify any security or safety threats, including fire and smoke. There are multiple options and system structures, but the purpose remains to protect anybody on site…

Automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras are an advanced form of security surveillance technology that can register vehicles against a database or capture the identity of a car that has been recorded breaching a perimeter or committing a driving offence. As the security sector evolves, the use of AI-enabled CCTV has become more widely adopted….

Employers, businesses, and commercial property owners have several legal obligations related to fire safety, many of which were introduced as part of The Fire Safety Act 2005. How often should commercial fire alarms be tested? Fire alarms in any commercial building should be tested weekly. The regulations say that a company should appoint somebody as…

Keyholding means just that – your contracted security provider holds keys to your property, including any alarm codes or entry fobs required to gain access if there is an emergency, such as a security alarm, fire alarm or attempted intrusion. Clearway keyholding ensures that a trained, reliable team of security personnel can address issues, respond…

As the government looks for new ways to reduce carbon emissions and secure energy reliance from Russia and other countries, wind farms have begun to spring up around the British countryside. This renewable energy source is perfectly suited to remote rural areas, particularly where flatter land and higher rates of natural wind allow for convenient,…

Manned guarding is a blanket term that describes having certified security guards physically present at your site or premises – although that can cover a broad range of duties, responsibilities and security activities. The visible presence of uniformed security guards is an extremely effective way of safeguarding your business or property from theft or damage,…

Property inspections are a valuable yet cost-effective way to retain a regular oversight of empty, vacant and void units and buildings. With the right empty property security provisions in place, many empty properties may not require continued on-site surveillance, particularly if you have robust security screens and alarm monitoring that preclude any criminal intrusions from…

Concrete barriers are an effective solution for owners and managers of land, work sites, commercial properties, vacant buildings, and industrial units who need to ensure there are no unsupervised vehicular entry points. But what are the different types of concrete barriers and how is each type used? Concrete barriers can be used in a variety…

Concrete barrier blocks are a versatile, straightforward physical safety and security measure available in various configurations. Our concrete barriers weigh anything from 1200kg to 2500kg per block and are capable of withstanding heavy impacts, including traffic collisions. The weight and strength of dense interlocked or stacked concrete blocks mean they cannot be moved or shifted…

The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) has warned of a critical shortage of licensed security officers, with 62,000 new professionals required within the next year to cater to increasing demand to protect businesses, organisations and sites. Experienced, trained security personnel are essential to thousands of companies and public sector property managers, providing an integral part of…

Over our 30+ years of operating, we’ve gained a vast amount of experience in securing vacant properties and sites using our extensive portfolio of security solutions. One question we get asked all the time is: “What measures, in your opinion, should we focus on to maximise our security, given our limited budget?” It’s a very…

Artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t confined to digital ecosystems and online security; it is a valuable asset in physical security protocols. It can transform how businesses and site owners monitor, control and safeguard their sites and properties. Security systems can become faster, responsive and more intelligent, with cost-efficiencies gained by integrating digital solutions that detect and…

Renewable energy is a trending topic at present, driven partially by the need for sustainable, environmentally-friendly energy production but also by soaring energy prices that have made conventional utilities prohibitively expensive. Solar panels, outdoor wind farms and hydroelectric plants are becoming increasingly popular. The larger the facility, the greater the efficiencies and green credentials, with…

It will come as no surprise to contractors, developers and construction site managers that costs are rising – and the recent report in Construction News bears this out. Among the headline statistics, material costs have risen to a 40-year high over the last 24 months, structural steel is 26% more expensive, and further increases of 2.5% and…

We can confirm that the government restrictions during the pandemic period have now ended. Arbitration ended midnight 23rd September 2022. If you did not use the arbitration process: If you have not taken advantage of the arbitration process to recover ‘ringfenced rent arrears’ accrued during the pandemic, the deadline to do so has now passed…

Prices at the pump have continued to remain high after the fuel crisis earlier in the summer of 2022. Added to the current cost of living crisis, reports of surges in fuel-related thefts, illegal entry and damage to outdoor facilities, as well as thefts from parking areas and industrial machinery continue to cause concern. The Office…

UK retail sales returned to growth in July, following 3 months of consecutive declines. The strong summer sunshine over the month, peaking in the mid-month heatwave gave demand a boost, led both Food and Non-Food to see growth for the first time since December to 2.3%. Vacancy rates continued to travel in the right direction,…

As is true to recent form in the UK, crime rates are on the rise according to several high profile reports. The Office for National Statistics reported that 6.3 million crimes were recorded in the year to March 2022. “Recorded crime in England and Wales has hit a 20-year high as the proportion of offences leading to…

Clearway Technology, with partner Loci-Labs, has developed a new automated AI powered edge and cloud-based PPE detection service which can be deployed with its range of rapidly deployable Technology Towers or via clients’ existing IP CCTV systems. Understand Health and Safety breaches and detect risks with real-time detection and notification to Clearway’s cloud-based analytics platform…

Clearway Technology has won the Transport Technology category at the inaugural Local Council Roads Innovation Group (LCRIG) Innovation Festival and will now receive support to develop the technology further and facilitate a trial of its range of operative wearable safety recording devices on a local authority network. As a new provider to the highways sector…

Clearway, an experienced UK-wide security services provider, was recently engaged through Forest Traffic Services Ltd to secure a high profile site in the Wokingham Borough for Milestone Infrastructure. The site was the £6.8 million project at Winnersh Triangle Park and Ride, Bracknell. The works included increasing the number of parking spaces by a hundred to…

An abandoned building is a substantial risk to a community – and is a more serious consideration than vacant or unoccupied premises that remain under the owner’s control. Where there isn’t a specified owner and a building has been left to decay, the threat of infestations, criminal activity and fly-tipping amplifies many times over. In…

The hospitality and retail sectors bore the brunt of lockdown: restrictions on table sizes, social distancing rules and cancelled sports events threatened its survival. A severe reduction in international tourism accelerated this impending crisis for many hotels and retail shops. However, data supplied by the Local Data Company shows that the leisure sector remained resilient…

The UK government has announced a controversial new scheme – and although it’s only a draft proposal at the moment, it’s a potential game-changer for commercial landlords with empty units. The idea, part of the Levelling-Up and Regeneration Bill, was published last month and includes a rental auction system whereby property owners with unoccupied retail…

Empty buildings that have fallen into disrepair are often sold at extremely competitive prices, usually at property auctions, and can be an attractive renovation project or investment asset. There are countless reasons a building might be deemed derelict, but the specific conditions matter when you need to find appropriate insurance coverage. If you’re interested in…

Although we might use the terms ‘vacant’ and ‘unoccupied’ interchangeably, they are not the same from an insurance perspective – and you need to know the difference if you own or manage any empty building! In this article we look at the difference between an unoccupied property and a vacant property for landlords and insurance…

A recent insurance survey has reported the staggering number of empty homes in London – equal to nearly 90,000 unoccupied sites, worth £130 billion to the owners. Although the capital has the most vacant homes of any location in the UK, this statistic isn’t limited to London. Hundreds of thousands of sites without tenants pose…

The Clearway Group is delighted to announce the appointment of Ronnie Coutts MBE MA as UK Managing Director. The UK Group is formed of three business units – Clearway Services, Clearway Technology and Clearway Debt Squared with headquarters in London. Clearway is a leading commercial security services provider specialising in securing vulnerable properties, sites and assets….

All Locations See Vacancy Improvements according to a report from The Local Data Company. While in Q4 no shopping locations saw an increase in vacancy rates since the start of the pandemic, Q1 2022 saw a decrease in vacancy rates for each location. Retail Parks continue to record the strongest results, not only in terms…

Vacant property security has always been crucial, with the risks of materials theft, illegal trespass, vandalism and squatters an ever-present threat to empty dwellings. However, extreme material shortages have put further pressure on property owners and commercial landlords and construction projects, resulting in huge price rises and a corresponding spike in thefts. There is widespread…

The Clearway Group enhances its service capability through the addition of specialist fire and security technology business.   Headquartered in London, Clearway is a leading commercial security services provider specialising in securing vulnerable properties, sites and assets. The Group delivers solutions that are tailored to their customers’ needs, utilising an extensive range of specialist services…

The Clearway Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Waterfall as General Manager (Highways), who will take overall responsibility for the company’s development in the highways sector. Mr Waterfall joins Clearway after spending the last few years with highways and transport solutions provider Clearview Intelligence where he held the position of Client Relationship…

The volume of unoccupied business premises in the UK has risen sharply, primarily due to companies relocating or switching to a remote work structure following the pandemic. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to retain your site value and preserve the integrity of the structure, whilst preparing it for a new tenant or…

With ever-increasing energy prices, it’s essential for landlords, commercial owners and investors to keep up to speed with the costs of paying for utilities for their empty properties. As the vacant property experts, the Clearway team has compiled this short guide to recap everything you need to know, with a few pointers about avoiding unnecessary…

A recent update from the Self-Storage Association indicates that organised crime groups are targeting self-storage facilities, particularly those without adequate security, leaving valuables exposed to theft. This guide includes advice for all self-storage companies, highlighting the key threats you should safeguard against and the best security features available to protect your customers, staff, property, business…

If you’re a property developer and you’re planning on buying a vacant property to renovate, there are a couple of things you’ll need to bear in mind before making the purchase. Unlike buying a property that is already occupied or ready to be occupied, a vacant property will require lots of work, renovation and financial…

If you’re currently the owner of an empty house, you might be wondering if you’re still supposed to pay council tax on your property. Not only do you have to pay council tax, but you’ll be liable for what’s known as an ‘empty house premium’ alongside your regular council tax bill. While the premium varies…

If you’re a landlord looking to invest in an empty or abandoned property, one of the most difficult parts of the process might be finding the initial property owner. In this article, we explain some of the most trusted methods you should try for finding the owner of abandoned property. The faster you find the…

If you own commercial property that is currently sitting empty, you might be asking yourself – do I have to pay business rates on an empty property? Unfortunately for UK property owners, having your commercial property empty will not make you exempt from paying business rates. You’ll be liable for business rates within the first…

If you’re the owner or landlord of a residential property which is currently empty, you might be wondering – do you have to pay council tax on an empty property? Despite a few exceptions, most landlords will be liable for the council tax on empty properties. In this article, we’ll explain the government regulations on…

The Clearway Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Nick Revell to UK Group Sales Director, taking overall responsibility for the growth leadership of all of its UK business units. Clearway operates as a market leader in vacant property services and asset protection including security, CCTV, monitoring and debt management and recovery via Clearway…

If you’re considering buying an empty property to invest in, or if you own a second home that you’re not occupying, knowing what constitutes a “vacant property” is important when it comes to aspects like insurance and tax. In this article, we outline what constitutes a vacant property, the difference between vacant property and unoccupied…

Construction risk assessments are all about identifying potential workplace hazards, assigning responsibility, and assessing the correct steps to mitigate or remove those risks. Building sites have a unique set of potential hazards. A comprehensive risk assessment is crucial, ensuring the workforce can go about their daily tasks without any undue exposure to injury or accident….

Knowing the right way to manage utilities serving a vacant property isn’t always obvious. It might be inconvenient (and expensive) to disconnect essential services if you’re unsure when the property will be required or when a new tenant will move in. Firstly, leaving utilities on is sometimes better than turning them off if you’re looking…

Protecting your business, especially empty sites and premises, is vital to reduce common risks such as plant theft, break ins, fly-tipping and vandalism. These security breaches can be particularly costly for your business. One of the best ways to have eyes on your business around the clock is by installing commercial cctv cameras on and…

A construction site presents numerous opportunities for costly criminal activity. The building or refurbishment of a property requires a considerable number of resources for any given site – and with increased resources comes a high number of risks such as theft, trespassing and vandalism to name just a few. Additionally, the duration and complexity of…

No matter where you run your business, security is vital. If your business premises are located in an urban area or somewhere with a high crime rate, you will ideally want to deter potential criminals. Even in rural areas, certain crimes may go unnoticed without effective security. The best-case scenario is crime prevention. However, if…

The UK housing crisis continues to worsen, as widely reported in the media. Yet, a baffling correlation exists between the volume of vacant properties and increasing housing demand that has spurred the government to call on private developers to help. One of the key frustrations is that so many empty homes could be repurposed with…

Keeping up-to-date with legislation Rental properties are subject to an increasing amount of legislation and as a landlord you have responsibilities towards your tenants that you simply can’t afford to ignore. As well as gas safety checks, electrical systems checks, fire safety regulations, Legionnaire’s Disease checks and legislation, maintenance and repairs, your tenants’ deposits must…

Professional management will optimise property assets to deliver maximum performance and return on investment. have you heard of our all encompassing smartPROP service? If you are thinking about investing into property, or are already the landlord of a commercial or residential premises or portfolio, you may be wondering whether you should engage the services of…

Vacant properties are regular targets for criminal activity, whether it’s an empty residential rental or a commercial unit between tenants. The presence of valuable raw materials and running utilities combined with easy access can cost landlords and property owners thousands in repairing vandalism, evicting squatters and replacing stolen fixtures, roof tiles and copper piping. Fortunately, there…

Following the lifting of this years’ moratorium on forfeiture for commercial rent arrears, many landlords are once again able to use various methods in order either regain possession or recoup what they owe from tenants. Whilst many landlords may be eager to press ahead with their chosen strategy, it is important to note that the…

For most companies, the usage of red diesel will be a thing of the past come April 2022 should they want to avoid incurring fines. The rules are changing meaning that the use of red diesel will be limited to: Vehicles in the agricultural sector Those powering non-commercial heating systems Vehicles used in the railway…

UK shop vacancy rate declined to 14.4% in the final quarter of 2020. This was the first time that the number of shuttered shops fell since the start of 2018. According to the figures from the British Retail Consortium and Local Data Company, this was 0.1 percentage points below the third quarter level and 0.7…

Protecting your commercial premises is essential in order to keep your business and its assets secure. Theft and vandalism are two threats faced every day that cause significant inconvenience and financial loss. Therefore, it is of the highest priority to have in place a robust security system to watch over your business at all times,…

Minimum EPC rating set to rise in 2025 – what do landlords need to know? Much has been said about carbon emissions and achieving net-zero as of late, with the Government proposing new EPC regulations that will change the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards in 2025. The changes demonstrate the direction of travel regarding energy performance…

The Government has brought forward its proposed legislation dealing with Covid Rent arrears and the arbitration scheme to resolve Covid Rent arrears disputes. The Bill will now be subject to the usual parliamentary scrutiny and may change as it makes its way through Parliament. We will answer some of the initial questions that the real…

PIR (Passive Infra-Red) detection is a technology used in security systems to detect movement or intruders by recognising light emitted from nearby objects. PIR is the result of years of product innovation as security companies find new and innovative ways to detect the presence of intruders in commercial and domestic facilities. Over the years, PIR…

The BBC said it best: “Shortages seem to be the only thing we’re not running out of in the UK in 2021.” Interruptions in the supply chain have negatively affected every industry, from cars and technology to food and fuel.” Unfortunately, the construction industry hasn’t been immune from these shortages. In fact, homebuilding.co.uk suggests that “the construction…

It is well known that the pandemic has had a serious impact on landlords and tenants alike, in particular with regard to the commercial sphere. Following the introduction of various COVID-19 related legislation, landlords have been restricted in their ability to seek enforcement of commercial leases and to recover rent. One of the principal areas…

VACANCY RATES BY LOCATION TYPE In line with the net change results, shopping centres saw vacancy rates increase the fastest of any location type in H1 2020. Vacancy jumped from 15.6% in H1 2020 to 19.4% in H1 2021, an increase of 3.8% in the six-month period. This is the largest half-year increase tracked by…

Getting help recovering unpaid invoices from a debt collection agency can be seen as a last ditch attempt. However, it is always best to act quickly if you are owed commercial debt. Leaving any debts outstanding for too long increases the risk that you will lose your money for good. Below are some examples of…

Call for evidence on commercial rents: responses and analysis Plan Your Route Out Of Lockdown with the market experts. The government will be introducing a binding arbitration process that will be put in place between landlords and tenants. This will be a formal legally binding agreement that both parties must adhere to. So what are…

The ongoing shortage of building materials has pushed construction site theft to an all-time high, forcing a greater need for 24/7 site CCTV security. The Construction Equipment Association recently reported a 50% surge in construction site crime rates last year due to the coronavirus pandemic lockdown. But now, these figures have been exacerbated further due…

The next few weeks may see an upsurge in the travelling community trespassing onto the land of several golf clubs in and around the northwest of England. Travellers are certainly not there for the golf. In 2021, Royal Liverpool Golf Club at Hoylake, which hosted the British Open in 2014 and is due to again…

There are many options when it comes to choosing suitable CCTV cameras for your premises. Clearway recommends security installations based on site-specific factors, such as: Key entrances and exits. Access points such as loading bays or roof lights. The size and layout of the site. Mains power accessibility. Potential security threats. The situation and style…

CCTV is doubtless one of the greatest preventatives to avoid illegal entry, thefts and damage to your property. However, it remains crucial to identify the best positioning to ensure you cover all of the highest risk locations at your premises and have sufficient lines of sight to capture activity in and around your entrances. You…

Japanese Knotweed can wreak havoc on a building’s infrastructure, growing into basements and causing structural damage to buildings, which can devalue properties and lead to the refusal of mortgages. The invasive plant can grow more than 1m in height in three weeks with the complex root system going down 3m and out 7m, spreading so…

Network Rail, the owner of Britain’s railway infrastructure, hit the headlines at the end of 2018, when it was announced that Blackstone, an American private equity firm, and Telereal Trillium, a multi-billion pound property management and development company, would be purchasing a 150-year lease on Network Rail’s 5,261 rental spaces for £1.46 billion, becoming the…

Sorting out commercial rent debts will be key to enabling businesses to plan ahead with certainty and build back better from the pandemic. New rules to be established to ringfence COVID-19 commercial rent arrears and guide tenants and landlords to agree repayment plans. Measures to protect commercial tenants extended until new rules come into force….

As the UK’s roadmap successfully meanders towards June 21st, more people are travelling, shops are reopening, and many offices are beginning to come back to life. However, the need for social distancing and the wearing of face masks remains in place, and may continue to do so for some considerable time even beyond June 21st….

With COVID-19 restrictions easing, the return of all in-person events is closer than ever. However, security measures may need to be put in place at these events to counter anti-social behaviour, manage traffic and help with crowd controlling. On February 22nd, the government outlined the Spring Roadmap 2021, introduced as four steps to ease lockdown…

Clearly, copper isn’t as valuable as gold, but its increase in value is catching the attention of thieves, resulting in stories of copper theft hitting the headlines. The world is shifting towards clean-energy solutions and several long-term trends are driving the need for more copper, including the demand for electric vehicles, the consumption of electronics,…

Installing a commercial CCTV system for your business can be an excellent way to bolster security and ensure your staff, premises, and equipment remain under rigorous surveillance to prevent criminal activity. However, there are a few things you need to do to ensure you are compliant with data protection legislation in the UK. In this…

Millions of British businesses have been closed for much of 2020. Whether working from home, limiting customer access, or being shut altogether, the roadmap to exit lockdown restrictions is excellent news that many companies are beginning to reopen their doors. However, it can be daunting to know which safety protocols you need to implement to…

Every business will produce trade waste of some kind, and it’s essential to understand the rules and responsibilities around safe disposal. Below, we summarise what you need to do and how to ensure your company is fully compliant with the UK business waste regulations. If in any doubt as to your obligations or whether you…

Landlords with multiple occupied properties have never had to consider what they need to do when their properties remain unoccupied for long periods, as they are likely to be now. Due to the pandemic, the majority of retail, hospitality and leisure businesses were closed, either in part or completely, during 2020 and the first quarter…

Vacant properties are significantly more vulnerable to arson attacks than occupied properties, with up to sixty fires occurring in, or adjacent to, an empty property in the UK every day. An empty property that is not regularly inspected or monitored becomes an easy target for vandals, squatters and arsonists. Learn more about void property inspection….

Fly-tipping has always been a major issue and is not only extremely damaging to the environment and wildlife, but it also costs UK taxpayers. In 2019 more than a million incidents of fly-tipping were reported across the UK, costing tax-payers an estimated £60 million. Due to the closure of community household waste recycling centres, cases…

Closed-circuit television, CCTV, is a vital part of a modern security surveillance system and something commonly found on public transport, in offices, protecting businesses, and in retail spaces. However, have you ever wondered how it actually works? The concept is relatively simple. A camera records activity, streams it to a monitor, and then stores that…

There are two frequent questions the Clearway CCTV team answers, and they are: Can my CCTV system record sound? And, is it legal to capture audio through CCTV? Here we’ll run through the options available if you require an audio-equipped CCTV system and the factors to consider when deciding if this is the best option…

CCTV cameras have become part and parcel of everyday life. We see them on the tube, in shops, offices, trains – and surveillance is now so commonplace we often don’t give it a second thought! However, the history of CCTV is extraordinary, and the technical capacity of cameras has innovated substantially since this form of…

As experienced suppliers of a vast range of commercial and domestic CCTV installations, the Clearway team often deals with privacy queries. There are laws to be aware of whether you are: Installing a new CCTV surveillance system. Have an existing installation and aren’t sure if you are compliant. Wish to add new cameras or reposition…

The Clearway team is often asked about pricing for concrete barrier hire – but it’s challenging to calculate precise figures without running through all the variables. The great thing about concrete barriers is that they are hugely versatile, with multiple uses, sizes, construction configurations and lengths of hire, so we’ll explain how those factors impact…

Property Week have reported that the government has announced that the ban on commercial evictions has been extended by three months until 30 June. These measures build on the government’s action to provide financial support as restrictions are lifted over the coming months – extending the furlough scheme, business rates holiday and the Universal Credit…

There are a number of ways and reasons to use CCTV – but predominantly, it is a security measure adopted by businesses in the UK who wish to protect their assets, stock, equipment and premises from criminals. British business statistics show that, in the wholesale and retail sector, criminal theft and fraud impacts over 10…

Installing a new CCTV system is a great decision. It’s an instant safeguard against theft and contributes to the protection of your properties from any number of potential risks and intrusions. However, there are lots of different recorders on the market. If you haven’t used CCTV before, it can be challenging to determine which type…

What landlords and tenants need to know. How does COVID-19 impact commercial lease obligations? Given the potential adverse financial impact on tenants, a common question is whether tenants can refuse to pay rent, pay less rent and/or seek to terminate the lease prematurely. The starting point is to review the terms of the particular lease….

CCTV surveillance is a critical security precaution for many businesses, construction sites and private properties throughout the UK. Having signage and visible cameras can be a strong deterrent, and ensure your premises are protected from criminal activity – but how long should CCTV footage be stored for? It’s important to use CCTV responsibly. There are…

One of the most common questions answered by the Clearway security team is; how much does CCTV reduce criminal activity? There have been numerous reports and controlled experiments that suggest that CCTV results in a significant decrease in crime, however, CCTV has a higher impact in some settings in comparison to others. We’ve summarised the…

Tough new enforcement measures – from fixed penalty notices to imprisonment – will come into force on Monday 15th February. Heavy financial penalties and potential jail time for non-compliance All passengers travelling to England to take mandated COVID-19 tests on day 2 and day 8 of quarantine Those who have been to a ‘red list’…

The Coronavirus Act 2020 imposed a suspension on the forfeiture of most business tenancies – those to which Part 2 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 applies even if contracted out of the protection of that Act – on the grounds of non-payment of rent, which is defined as all sums due under a…

CCTV is a crucial asset in commercial security. It has multiple applications across many different business sectors from deterring break-ins to capturing high definition footage of suspicious activity. However, company managers do have a responsibility to adhere to UK laws around how they use CCTV. There are several essential considerations, from informing staff about live…

CCTV is essential for many businesses, but the costs of installing a commercial surveillance system can vary significantly. Here we’ll explore the primary considerations that will dictate whether you need a simple installation or a more substantial investment for a full-scope CCTV system with the latest technological security applications. For this guide’s purposes, we’re going…

CCTV surveillance is a vital security asset for many homes, businesses and public spaces throughout the UK.  It is used to streamline safety checks, protect properties when they are uninhabited, and monitor movements. We often think of CCTV as something you’d see at a bank or a retail park, and used to record potential criminal…

CCTV cameras are a key part of a security strategy for any construction site. Vacant sites will always be a target for criminals, given the value of materials, tools, and commercial vehicles. Surveillance is one of the fastest, most cost-effective ways to defend a construction site from thefts and vandalism – whether planned or opportunist….

In the COVID-19 world significant restraints have been placed on landlords’ ability to recover outstanding rents. We look here at what options landlords retain and what factors landlords should take account of as we approach the March quarter day. Current Restrictions include: The restrictions imposed during the Covid-19 crisis on landlords’ remedies for recovery of…

Managing safety and security on a construction site and adhering to safety laws and requirements can seem a daunting task, but it must be one to be taken seriously, especially as there is human life at risk. A busy work site may have multiple teams of tradespeople, constant vehicle movement, commercial machinery and potentially dangerous…

Safely managing the flow of traffic and pedestrian areas on construction sites is vital for many reasons. Sites are typically inhabited by many types of vehicles including loads, cranes, HGV lorries and diggers – all of which have limited visibility, have moving parts and are specialist commercial work vehicles.  Depending on the nature of your…

As the Government considers the impact supermarket shopping, in particular, is having on the wider community because of the increased risk the environment presents, Ministers are likely to force supermarkets and major retail stores to ensure they have stricter processes in place to operate as COVID-safe environments. Retail stores around the UK will be forced…

This year, following the national lockdown in November and the strict tiering rules that effectively replicated the lockdown in many parts of the country forcing many retailers and hospitality businesses to close, that was emphatically not the case. On Monday, British Land reported that, for the December payment, it collected less than half the rent…

Over Christmas, when a construction site is vacant, the best gift a site manager or developer can receive is peace of mind that their valuable assets are safe, by having effective security systems and processes in place. The festive season typically sees construction sites closed and vacated for up to two weeks, giving thieves and…

HOW DO BODY TEMPERATURE DETECTION CAMERAS WORK? Any object with a temperature above absolute zero will emit a detectable amount of thermal radiation as infrared. A thermal camera converts infrared radiation into grayscale values and matches those grayscale values, through an algorithm, to temperature values. These readings are overlaid onto live video and displayed on…

As we begin to draw close to the end of a rollercoaster of a year, construction companies are only a few weeks away from the annual Christmas shutdown that typically lasts a couple of weeks. This time of year should be a relaxing one, and give our construction workers a well-earned break. However, leaving a…

Caffè Nero’s company voluntary arrangement was in doubt today after the coffee shop chain received a surprise takeover bid from the billionaire brothers who are acquiring Asda. Under the mooted takeover by Mohsin and Zuber Issa, landlords would be paid in full for the rent arrears built up by the chain during the pandemic, compared to 30p…

Turnover leases have always comprised a small section of retail and leisure leases. Previously, however, they have generally been combined with an element of a base rent; a traditional 10-year lease, say, with a five-year break clause. These leases were very much geared in the landlord’s favour, guaranteeing a rental payment even if a store…

As 2020 comes to a close, it is challenging to try and quantify the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic on UK businesses. From office blocks to construction sites, restaurants to retailers, the impact on every type of business is substantial. One of the critical controls to safeguard your workforce and protect your visitors is, of…

One of the most common questions we’re asked with regards to security systems is ‘how much will a security system cost for my business?’ The difficulty in answering this is that it very much depends on the type of system you need, what services you require, and the risks that your business or property faces…

When you have broken windows, damaged doors, or irreparable locks, time is the most crucial factor in preventing further damage. Leaving visible signs of illegal entry exposes your property to further intrusions, leaves assets vulnerable to theft and presents a building open to trespassers or squatters. Moving swiftly to board up your windows and doors…

A report from the financial reporter has suggested that 60% of people will struggling to repay after payment holidays end in the UK following the Coronavirus Pandemic. Of the 3.7 million households in the UK granted a bill ‘payment holiday’, over 6 in 10 are already facing financial difficulties and will struggle to repay their…

THE TIMES REPORTS THAT REMOTE WORKING LEAVES OFFICE LANDLORDS FACING WORST CRUNCH SINCE 2008. In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic London office vacancy rates are forecast to hit their highest level since the financial crisis as companies look to shrink their headquarters and focus on remote working. The Times has reported that vacancies are…

There are a number of standards and accreditations, such as the National Association of Security Dog Users (NASDU) to regulate the usage of dogs in security environments.  Below, we take a look at the training that sniffer dogs and security dogs undergo before they’re free for use in the field. A female K-9 security professional with…

As empty properties remain extremely vulnerable to illegal entry, theft and damage, the Metropolitan Police has released an 8 point safeguarding guide to help property owners better understand how to reduce the risks. Following this advice should help reduce cost, stress and time involved in dealing with a break-in. Overall, the advice boils down to…

Following weeks of increased volatility and news this week that British Gas will not be providing contracts for customers over 10GWhs, panic has been felt across the Energy Market with short term supply for Winter 22 still a concern. Markets have shot up with a record trading price of £900p/MWh being seen for November 22…

Throughout the UK, security guards are a familiar sight and provide vital services across public, commercial and residential facilities.  Along with significant changes to the ways we travel, live, shop and work, the Coronavirus crisis has also had an extraordinary impact on the role and demand for qualified security personnel. The roles of security guards…

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…”.  Dickens’ famous introduction to the Tale of Two Cities could eerily be describing Britain and the wider world in 2020, rather than only London and Paris in 1789. The country is in turmoil. We continue to see examples of incredible selflessness amongst our…

So how much does it cost to hire a security guard? The exact cost of a security guard hire service depends on a number of considerations, however, as an indication, the typical cost of a security guard in the UK can vary widely between £25 to £150 an hour. Some firms will charge hourly rates,…

Since the world began dealing with the effects of coronavirus on everyday life, there’s been a lot of hype from the media, manufacturers and suppliers about body temperature detection cameras for coronavirus detection. We’re all guilty, to some degree, because these systems can play a significant role in both conveying a sense of security and…

Businesses such as large offices, dental practices, hairdressers, beauty salons, offices, pubs, gyms and hotels really need to take action before reopening their premises in order to avoid spreading the Legionella bacteria, says PHE. The guidance says there should be ‘regular flushing’ of water systems to stop bacterial growth, and premises should undertake a detailed…

Even commercial landlords are struggling from the effects of COVID-19. Intu, the group owning a number of large shopping centres, including the Trafford Centre in Manchester, entered into administration at the end of June. Intu’s financial difficulties were documented long before COVID-19 (with £4.5m of debt last year) , but it is apparent that the…

A report by Property Week has indicated that property investors and institutions have suffered a shortfall of more than £1.5bn in rental income that was due to be collected for the second quarter. Almost a fifth of rent that was due at the March quarter rent day had not been collected 90 days later, according…

Amendments to Commercial Rent Arrears Recovery (CRAR) that came into force 24 June until 30 September 2020. Here is what you need to know: Rent and service charges are often paid on the usual Quarter Days in advance. For example the rent due on 24th June is for the period from 24th June to 28th…

Are you a shop, large business or store owner and have recently opened your doors both the public and employees again?  With lockdown finally being lifted on consumers stores such as top high street brands, queues began snaking around some of Britain’s best-known stores this morning as shoppers sought to take advantage of discounted stock…

All evictions from social, private and commercial landlords save for trespass claims in England and Wales remain suspended until 23 August 2020. KEY POINTS Suspension of evictions from social or private rented accommodation extended by 2 months. New court rules will ensure vulnerable renters will be protected when the suspension of evictions ends. Government committed…

Wary, apprehensive, relieved, delighted, distressed, opposed… the views of both business and the public span the spectrum as the country emerges slowly from strange weeks of almost complete hibernation in one of the sunniest and warmest springs in memory and the driest on record. Key workers have obviously been keeping calm and carrying on magnificently…

The Times have reported that it is likely that landlords are facing a gaping in hole in their finances when furlough comes to an end. Many buy-to-let landlords across the UK, including in London, have experienced average rents increased in the early months of 2020, with tenants paying £959 a month on average in March,…

Extended restrictions relating to commercial property relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic. A new government code of practice relating to commercial tenancies during the COVID-19 pandemic has been put in place, find out more here. The government announced on Friday 19th June that the protection from forfeiture given to relevant business tenants under s82 of the Coronavirus…

On May 20, 2020, the UK Government published its much anticipated draft legislation (the Corporate Governance and Insolvency Bill) which aims to provide greater opportunities for company survival and better returns for creditors during and after the COVID-19 emergency. The Government intends to ask Parliament to expedite progress of the Bill. If enacted in its…

As lockdown forced many councils to close community household waste recycling centres, incidents of fly-tipping have seen a massive spike in numbers. Just one example, in Wigan, Greater Manchester, a 51% increase in fly-tipping was recorded during the lockdown. In 2019 there were more than a million reports of fly-tipping across the UK, costing UK…

The Government have announced that they are putting task-forces in place to plan how closed sectors can reopen safely. The report had advised that five new ministerial-led task-forces have been set up to develop plans for how and when closed sectors can reopen safely, following publication of the UK’s roadmap to rebuild Britain. Businesses and shops…

A report from The Times has suggested that one of Britain’s biggest landlords is preparing for rental payments from retailers to fall by as much as 75% in the next year as tenants default on their dues, due to the coronavirus pandemic. Land Securities has a national portfolio of shopping centres, offices and leisure complexes….

There is an estimated loss of over £800 million in the UK construction industry from common crime including theft and vandalism every year. These figures are only from those cases that are reported, meaning numbers are most likely higher from unreported thefts and vandalism. The Chartered Institute of Building conducted a survey where 92% of…

A REVALUATION OF BUSINESS RATES WILL NO LONGER TAKE PLACE IN 2021 TO HELP REDUCE UNCERTAINTY FOR FIRMS AFFECTED BY THE IMPACTS OF CORONAVIRUS. Communities Secretary Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP has announced that the revaluation of business rates will no longer take place in 2021 to help reduce uncertainty for firms affected by the…

An article in the Financial Times has reported that Ryanair will not return to flying if middle-seats must be kept empty. The low-cost airline have warned that it would not return too flying if the government insisted that planes leave their middle seat empty when travel restrictions are lifted following the coronavirus pandemic in the United…

A recent survey from redflaghalert has suggest that there has been a significant increase in businesses experiencing critical distress; 2,289 companies are now in this category. Between Q4 2019 and Q1 2020, the increases in certain sectors have been dramatic: Bars and restaurants: +37% Real estate and property: +21% Construction: +11% Retail: +8% Manufacturing: +8%…

With so many unused car parks, pubs, retail sites and abandoned areas of open land, the incidents of illegal encampments continue to grow across the UK. Since the country has been in lockdown due to the coronavirus outbreak, a rise in the number of unauthorised sites, particularly on authority-owned land, has been reported. As many…

THE GOVERNMENT HAVE AMENDED THE TAKING CONTROL OF GOODS AND (AMENDMENT) (CORONAVIRUS) REGULATIONS 2020 AND CAME INTO FORCE FROM THE 25TH APRIL AND WILL REMAIN IN EFFECT FOR THE DURATION OF THE CORONAVIRUS RESTRICTIONS. The Government is increasing the minimum amount of rent that must be due before CRAR may be used, to provide businesses…

During this time of unprecedented disruption, Clearway remain available to act across both debt and property service requirements. Below is a quick summary of where we can provide support and guidance. COMMERCIAL RENT ARREARS RECOVERY (CRAR) Can I instruct Clearway? Yes Clearway Comment On 23/4 the government announced they will be introducing new legislation to…

According to a recent survey by Remit Consulting, reported exclusively by Property Week, less than half the rent due on March quarter day was paid on the day. Just 48% of rent due was paid on March quarter day in comparison to last year’s 79%, increasing to 57% seven days later versus 90% in March…

An ITV report has found that there has been a huge spike in fly-tipping in some parts of the UK during the coronavirus lockdown. The Countryside Alliance reports a 300% rise in fly-tipping in some areas after local authorities closed recycling centres amid the Covid-19 crisis leaving people taking this time to clear out unwanted items and having nowhere…

WE KNOW THAT OUR CLIENTS WILL BE CONCERNED ABOUT THE SPREAD OF CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) AND HOW THIS WILL IMPACT ON UK BUSINESSES. Start the process today with our experienced Recovery Account Managers provide industry leading advice to landlords and property agents across the UK. For example, we are aware that the press is reporting that…

As businesses around the country follow new lockdown rules and close for the foreseeable future, the risk to owners of all unoccupied properties grows greater day by day. We thought it might happen but, when it did, the rapid closures were sudden and caught most retailers and hospitality outlets on the hop. Having to shut-up…

With Coronavirus spreading like wildfire, how do you test large numbers of people for heightened body temperature as an indicator of the likelihood of infection?  Businesses are creaking under the strain of unprecedented restrictions on the movement of people since Coronavirus changed everything about the way we live and work. However, many companies and organisations…

A GROWING PROTECTION NEED With the current COVID-19 crisis increasing its grip and the inevitable and the consequences for normal daily life and the economy we continue to see a growing number of business closures and movement to remote working. In turn this is resulting in an increasing number of temporarily vacant or void properties….

Your options for protecting void and vacant properties. One of the unfortunate consequences of the current COVID-19 outbreak is that, either due to commercial realities or instruction from the government, many companies have had to permanently or temporarily close their doors to business. This creates even more potential headaches for both business owners and landlords…

A RAPIDLY DECLINING OUTLOOK More than half a million UK companies were in financial distress before the coronavirus crisis began. Distressed companies increased 3% to 506,946 in the first quarter of this year, according to figures from Begbies Taylor. The property sector is most at risk of insolvency, with a 15% year-on-year increase. Sports and…

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO? Though we are in unprecedented times and many businesses are likely to suffer significant financial pressures in the short term whilst the government rolls out its planned support measures, we are all faced with trying to maintain normality as best we can in the circumstances. We might reasonably expect that by…

In these unprecedented and challenging times the health and wellbeing of us all is rightly everyone’s key concern. However, set against this is the inevitable need to maintain a level of commercial focus and plot a way through the various pieces of guidance that are currently being issued and, in some cases, creating a level…

The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 was meant to solve the widespread problem of metal theft from buildings. For a while, it did. Now metal theft is massively on the increase again. Metal thieves have caused misery to property owners whether it’s through stolen lead from roofs, stolen railway cable causing delays and cancellations, or…

Landlords must act in accordance with the Tort (Interference with Goods) Act 1977 when dealing with any goods left behind by tenants. Any landlords that dispose of or sell goods left behind by a tenant without following the correct procedure as laid out by the Tort Act 1977 could find themselves liable for damages. As…

We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to provide two complete new sets of kit for Westerham JFC under 7s Wolves. Being able to support the club’s excellent work was too good an opportunity to pass up and we are very happy to be involved. Myself, Gary and everyone else at Westerham JFC,…

IF a COMMERCIAL TENANT STOPS PAYING RENT, THEN YOU MAY BE ABLE TO FORFEIT THEIR LEASE BY PEACEABLE RE-ENTRY. Commercial tenants who stop paying rent can cost landlords dearly if not dealt with swiftly and efficiently. A landlord’s right to re-enter a commercial property and forfeit the lease offers them some security as it allows…

If your tenant has vanished into thin air whilst still owing rent, then a trace investigation may be able to help to locate them. A disappearing tenant can cause a landlord all kinds of problems. Not only can it leave the landlord faced with outstanding debts, the tenant is also still the legal occupant of…

Service charge disputes can be costly and time-consuming if not handled efficiently. Landlords have a responsibility to maintain the condition of all their residential and commercial properties. They may be able to recoup some of the costs of doing so by issuing tenants with service charges. There are however several rules and regulations surrounding what…

Before taking a debtor to court over an outstanding payment, you may wish to consider bad debt mediation. Businesses that struggle to collect payments from their debtors can find themselves at risk of running into serious financial difficulties. Unfortunately, in today’s uncertain financial climate, many businesses are finding themselves facing cash flow problems due to…

SMEs were left waiting up to 23 days longer than agreed for invoices to be paid in 2019, compared to just 12 days later in 2018, according to a report by MarketFinance Insights. The UK’s small businesses are being put under huge financial strain as debtors leave them waiting longer and longer for invoices to…

When deciding what action to take against a non-paying customer, it’s important to consider the size of the debt. Late payments and bad debts cause headaches for businesses of all shapes and sizes. As well as being time-consuming and frustrating to chase, late and non-paying customers can also cause businesses serious cash flow problems. If…

Studies have found that universal credit is still causing many tenants to fall into rent arrears. According to the Independent, if your tenant claims universal credit, they are six times more likely to fall into arrears with their rent than other benefit claimants. Research by the Residential Landlords Association also found that 54% of landlords had…

Landlords must be able to recognise the signs that a commercial tenant is in financial distress to help them to minimise their losses. Earlier this year, the number of UK companies going into administration hit a five year peak. There’s no doubt that businesses of all shapes and sizes are currently going through turbulent and uncertain…

Landlords should up security at their rental property over the festive season to prevent crime from ruining Christmas. Over Christmas you may find that your rental property is left standing empty more frequently than usual whilst tenants take festive trips away and visit family and friends. Crime rates tend to peak around Christmas, making it…

Many landlords mistakenly believe that because they own a property, they have a right to enter it as and when they wish. To avoid breaking the law, landlords should not enter a property that they are renting out without the express permission of their tenant. Although the landlord owns the property, whilst the tenant is…

Technology develops at a rapid pace and businesses are continually required to upgrade their electrical equipment. Using modern technology can help your business to become more efficient and keep up with competitors. But once you’ve upgraded your phones, desktop computers or other electrical equipment, what do you do with the old ones? Rather than leaving…

If your tenant vanishes into thin air before their tenancy has ended, it’s important to handle the situation with care. When a tenant mysteriously disappears, it can leave the landlord in a tricky situation. Whilst it may seem obvious that they have upped sticks and left, how can you be certain that they will not…

Before the cold weather really kicks in, tick off these simple maintenance tasks to ensure that your rental property can take on whatever this winter throws at it. Taking the time to prepare your rental property for bad weather can help to protect it from damage and keep your tenants warm and comfortable this winter….

The Tenancy Deposit Protection scheme provides some financial security to landlords. The Tenancy Deposit Protection scheme allows landlords to take a deposit from tenants when they first move into a property and store it securely. This deposit then acts as a security measure to deter tenants from causing damage to a property and provide landlords…

Warehouses can be large and sprawling buildings, often in remote or isolated locations, making them particularly vulnerable to crime. Securing your warehouse can seem like a daunting task, but when it’s bursting with valuable stock, can you afford not to? The level of security suitable for your warehouse will depend on a variety of factors…

Landlords are feeling the effects of the retail crisis as shops close and retailers demand cheaper rent. According to analysis by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and the Local Data Company (LDC), during the first half of 2019, 16 stores closed their doors every day, with only 9 new ones opening. This has resulted in a net decline…

Whilst it isn’t unreasonable to expect your tenants to keep your commercial property clean, asking your tenant to clean the space they’re renting isn’t a legally enforceable request. For the duration that a tenant occupies your property, it is their property, and they are entitled to manage the cleaning of the property in any way…

When a pest problem arises in rented property, it can be unclear whether it is the landlord or the tenant who is responsible for dealing with the problem. Whilst it is a landlord’s responsibility to ensure that rented property remains safe and habitable, it is also a tenant’s responsibility to clean and look after the…

Pest invasions are not only unpleasant and unhygienic for tenants; they can also cause considerable damage to your property. As a landlord, it is your responsibility to ensure that your rental property remains in a safe and habitable condition. However, when you don’t live in the property yourself, you are at risk of missing the…

Some say it was simply a matter of time. Household name and chemist to the nation for decades, Boots, recently joined the growing list of high street stalwarts like Marks & Spencer, House of Fraser, Barclays Bank and countless others who are shrinking their estates, by announcing the closure of around 200 Boots stores, mostly…

Research by leading London letting agent Benham and Reeves has found that, on average, it costs landlords over £31,000 to evict a rogue tenant. Falling victim of unscrupulous tenants can be a landlord’s worst nightmare. Dealing with the situation is not only time-consuming and stressful, it can also end up costing thousands of pounds. Leading…

Concrete barriers are usually installed to prevent vehicle access onto; a vacant site, a closed road, or at site entrances to help prevent fly-tipping. Sometimes vacant sites and closed roads mean the area is poorly/low lit and this can be a concern for public safety. Concrete blocks, pavements and roads all blend into one colour…

WHAT TO DO NEXT Unless you have stated in your tenancy agreement that your tenant may sublet all or part of the property, subletting without your permission is against the law. There are many reasons why a landlord may not want their tenants to sublet. When a tenant sublets the landlord loses control over who…

Illegal subletting can cause landlords serious problems, so it’s important to know what tell-tale signs to look out for. Unlawful subletting can void your insurance and result in overcrowding, complaints, and damage to your property. If your tenant is subletting all or parts of your property without your agreement, then they are breaking the law…

Whilst landlords cannot and should not taking evicting tenants lightly, situations do sometimes arise that make it the best course of action. To evict a tenant, you will need to have legal grounds for doing so, it is not something that can be done on a whim. If you have reasonable grounds, then you will…

Since the Tenants Fees Act was introduced, many landlords have increased the price of rent to recoup their losses. The new Tenants Fees Act came into effect on 1 June 2019, preventing landlords from charging up-front admin fees and end of tenancy fees. Landlords found to be breaching the new law could be fined £5,000…

Losing their job is one of the commonest reasons that tenants fall into arrears with their rent. Whilst some tenants may be upfront about losing their job, in many cases the landlord will not be aware that there is a problem until the first missed rent payment. In some cases, tenants may have cash in…

The new Tenant Fees Act 2019 was bought into effect on 1 June 2019 to prevent landlords and agents from charging private tenants excessive letting fees. It has been reported that the Tenant Fees Act will save UK renters £192 million a year but could cost landlords up to £83 million and letting agents £157…

How can landlords ensure that service charges are fair and ‘reasonably incurred’? Landlords should protect themselves from service charge disputes by using the tips and advice in this blog to ensure that their requests are fair and ‘reasonably incurred’. When tenants fall into arrears with their service charge payments it is often because they are…

Clear and effective communication is key to maintaining good relationships with tenants to avoid disputes and rent arears. They say that communication is key to a good relationship, and this is certainly true for landlord/tenant relationships. Learning to communicate information effectively, clearly and professionally with tenants helps to prevent problems occurring and mistakes being made….

Vacant properties are at risk of being broken into by intruders and falling into disrepair due to problems going unnoticed. If a property you own becomes empty and you don’t live close by you may find it difficult to keep any eye on it. Using a professional property inspection service is an invaluable way of…

Use the tips in this blog to reduce the risk of your vacant property being targeted by intruders. If your property becomes vacant it is at risk of falling victim to petty criminals, vandals, and squatters. Taking a few simple measures can help to disguise the fact that your property is empty and protect it…

The government have announced plans to end Section 21 no-fault evictions, meaning landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants at short-notice without good reason. Under current laws, landlords can use Section 21 to evict tenants from their property with as little as two months’ notice once their fixed-term tenancy period has ended. What…

Landlords should take care to avoid these common service charge errors to prevent non-payment and disputes with leaseholders. If you want to avoid time-consuming disputes it’s important to ensure that you are issuing service charge demands that are fair, ‘reasonably incurred’, legally recoverable and good value for money. Here are five common mistakes that landlords…

In a recent investigation we revealed alarming levels of non-compliance with the new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) which came into force on 25 May 2018, specifically where the use of CCTV is concerned. The reasons for this worrying discovery were multiple, but appeared mainly to be because the management responsible hadn’t bothered to read…

Static CCTV towers offer a convenient and cost-effective way of providing temporary sites with round the clock surveillance to deter criminals. Static CCTV towers can either be used alone or alongside security guards to provide reliable surveillance of many different types of outdoor site. Quick and convenient to set up and use, CCTV towers are…

Security is a factor in everyone’s lives these days, even if people don’t realise or think about it.  Planters outside important buildings often aren’t simple containers for flower arrangements, they’re reinforced concrete barriers to stop ram raids and suicide bombs, and CCTV surrounds us everywhere, inside and out. With bodycams and dashcams, number plate and…

Discovering that your business has been burgled is very distressing, make sure that you know how to handle the situation safely and efficiently. If you discover that your commercial property has been broken into, take the following five steps to safely report the burglary, start your insurance claim, and minimise disruption to your business. Don’t…

Landlords can save themselves time, money and hassle by taking measures to protect their vacant properties from squatters. Finding that squatters have moved into a vacant property is a common but worrying problem for landlords. Whilst squatting is not illegal, many squatters break the law by damaging the property to gain entry. Dealing with squatters…

Metal theft costs the UK economy an estimated £1 Billion per year –  It’s a serious problem that isn’t going away.  The resale value of certain commonly used metals continues to make metal theft a highly prized activity for adventurous, risk-taking thieves, not only in the UK but right across Europe.  From office blocks to…

Leaving your commercial property vulnerable to a break-in puts you, your employees, and your business’ assets at risk. Security should always be a priority for every business owner. If you’re not proactively preparing your business for a break-in then your business is in a precarious position. Most burglars are opportunists, so a lot of crime…

In October 2018 the Federation of Master Builders reported that tool theft was at an all-time high and FMB CEO, Brian Berry, said: “More than half of builders in the UK have fallen foul of tool theft with concerns growing over a crime wave wreaking havoc across the construction industry. Tools are being stolen from vans…

Corporate credit risk reports help landlords to avoid high risk tenants and monitor the financial performance of existing tenants to mitigate financial loss. Late and non-paying customers can have a devastating effect on your business’ cash flow, and poor cash flow is one of the leading reasons businesses go bust. Performing a corporate credit risk…

Security guard services are valuable for protecting your business from both internal and external threats to mitigate financial loss and improve safety. Unsure whether your business requires a security guard? Here are five signs your business could benefit from one. Often the presence of a security guard is enough of a deterrent to prevent criminal…

On 11th April 2019, Hammersmith bridge, opened in 1887, was closed indefinitely as engineers found cracks in the structure that have raised serious safety issues. Prior to this decision, Clearway were called in to provide specialist cleaning services to remove years of caked-on, hardened pigeon guano (droppings), to enable engineers to assess the bridge’s structure….

If attempts to remove travellers from your land using common law have been unsuccessful, then you will need to obtain a writ of possession. Although most travellers can be removed from private land under common law, there are some circumstances that may require help from the court. If the situation is complicated or there is…

If you have suspicions that your commercial property is being used to deal with or grow illegal drugs, you have a responsibility to act but should proceed with caution. If a property manager discovers that your commercial property is being used for illegal activities of any kind can be alarming. Not only could it result…

Fly-tipping is a scourge on any landscape, in the countryside, our city streets or any likely property with a bit of space, especially if it is vacant. Unfortunately, this blight is on the rise as cash-strapped councils, desperate to save money, increase the cost of bulk waste removal services and cowboy operators seek to avoid…

Landlords have a responsibility to educate themselves in the warning signs that a tenant may be using or dealing drugs on their property. Finding out that a tenant is growing, cooking, dealing or taking drugs on your property is every landlord’s worst nightmare. And unfortunately, it’s something that it’s impossible to completely guard yourself against….

Getting to the bottom of why your leaseholder is in service charge arrears can help you to decide on the best course of action. If you’re a landlord or property management company, receiving your service charge payments on time is important to your cash flow. And retaining good cash flow is essential, as problems with…

When a retail park-size store closes-down it immediately presents an opportunity for the premises to be illegally occupied and even for the property to be squatted. Not only does this carry the stress of arranging court enforcement eviction for squatters but also the high cost associated with the damage and mess and health risks left…

Japanese knotweed is one of the most invasive and destructive plants in the UK. The extremely aggressive plant can grow up to four inches a day in the summer and the plant’s roots can spread so far underground finding its way into existing cracks in concrete, pathways and walls or it finds its way into…

According to the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) one in five tradespeople experience theft and vandalism every single week, with many crimes not being reported so the figures are undoubtedly conservative. It paints an extremely concerning picture, especially as insurers Allianz Cornhill reckon that theft alone is estimated to cost the UK construction industry more than a…

In August 2018, the DIY chain, Homebase, announced it was closing 42 stores across the country by the Spring of 2019 and that a further 70 stores were under on-going review pending negotiations with the stores’ landlords. Homebase stores are invariably on retail parks and their out-of-town centre sites makes keeping the vacant buildings secure…

If a tenant wishes to bring a lease to a premature end, one option is to exercise a break clause which is often contained in both commercial and residential leases. Here’s some guidance on for landlords on break clauses.   While there are a number of ways to bring a lease to an end and plenty…

Being a keyholder is a pain. You always seem to be called out at the most inconvenient time but someone has to control out of hours entry and access to or within buildings, or when a property is otherwise vacant and needs to be kept secure. Of course there’s nothing like a good, solid security…

Have you been watching the latest series of #Luther? And last week it was reported there were 132 murders in London in 2018, a 10 year high, and the City overtook New York for the first time in the number of homicides. There was a 12% rise across the UK (excluding the London and Manchester…

The last thing on the minds of most landlords is the possibility of their property becoming a crime scene. But it can and does happen and not everything will fall within the responsibility of police and emergency services if a serious crime has been committed in your property.   Obviously when it comes to the victims…

Ho ho ho!! Greetings one and all… Have you all been busy and diligent property people this year and got your vacant buildings secured against trespassers and the inclement weather coming your way? Of course I know all about inclement weather up in my home at the North Pole so I can tell you what…

There is an enduring myth that removing squatters is a long painful and expensive process. This isn’t necessarily true and if you use a specialist eviction services company you can outsource the problem rather than have it take a toll on your time and possibly your health too.   The main thing to remember about squatters…

With warnings that the coldest winter on record is approaching, and temperatures are set to plummet as icy winds head over from Scandinavia bringing snow, heavy rain and sleet to the UK, the Met Office, via Twitter, is advising the UK to be “weather ready”. Even occupied buildings need insulated pipes to continue providing heat…

Even more concerning…. are you one of the 92%?  What are we talking about? Building site theft and vandalism on a shocking scale, even arson. Intimidation and threats to on-site workers. Criminal gang activity with the supply of illegal labour. Drug dealing and drug usage. Illegal land occupation. Anti-social behaviour and graffiti.  Dumping of illegal…

Abiding by the law, complying with regulations and following the highest professional standards of working practice… and belonging to the accredited trade and professional bodies and associations who expect all this from their members, may sound dull and boring bureaucracy. It may also seem irrelevant to some in today’s entrepreneurial and fast moving business culture…

An investigation found that in 2016 there were 628 reports of unlicensed music events across England and Wales. The following year 682 events were reported, an increase of 9%. Many others are very likely to go unreported. Of the reported illegal raves, 133 were from the Metropolitan Police, in London, nearly double the previous year….

A commercial estate in Oxfordshire was hit by thieves on more than one occasion and a lot of valuable IT equipment was taken. Despite having made previous visits we were confident the intruders would come back again so, rather than just deter the thieves, the owner wanted to catch them in the act. The Clearway…

The worst Halloween party of all time might be happening in your empty property, and you’re not invited. If you think an impromptu Halloween rave in an empty property is scary, imagine the damage squatters, vandals and thieves will do! According to Aviva, “Halloween is the worst day of the year for vandalism with claims…

Fly-tipping costing security industry thousands in clean up and insurance claims The illegal dumping of waste by criminal gangs is costing the security industry thousands of pounds in fly-tipping removal costs and insurance claims, according to the British Security Industry Association (BSIA). Fly-tipping is a growing issue which can end up costing thousands and in…

If you become a landlord you are effectively running a business and you tenants are your customers. Most business experts will tell you that good communication is important when dealing with any of your customers and the same is true when it comes to tenants but there are certain ways to go about communicating with…

Curious children tend to wander onto derelict building sites unaware of the dangers that could face them. In 2017, there were two very sad cases of children dying as a result of playing in buildings that were left unprotected. The responsibility for protecting the public against the potential risks of a vacant property lies entirely…

Toys R Us closed its doors early in 2018 following a challenging period on the high street, leaving a number of large, prominently placed retail units in town and city locations across the UK. With large store footprints including loading bays and extensive car parking, the primary security concern was preventing vandalism, illegal occupation and…

Over a single night in August, thieves hit an industrial site in Livingston, Scotland, forcing entry and stealing a vast amount of high-value metal equipment, such as I-beams, tower bracing bars and anti-climb equipment, valued at around £300,000. A Detective from Livingston CID said: “We believe whoever was responsible for this theft will look to…

Britain has seen 28,000 pubs close since the 1970s, with more closures forecast as business rates rise. Between Jan and June 2018 pubs are still closing at the rate of 18 per week. Anti-social behaviour in the form of squatters and vandals is a major problem in the towns and communities affected by pubs closing…

Clearway has provided a range of security and specialist services to the Metropolitan Police for over 13 years, and is delighted to announce that we have again won the Crime Scene Cleaning & Security Specialist contract after a competitive tender process run earlier this year. Jon Harwood, National Key Account Manager at Clearway, said; “The continued…

Illegal fly-tipping remains a major issue for councils and private land-owners across the UK, and those responsible will go to any lengths to avoid paying for waste removal services. They will dispose of their unwanted rubbish and possibly hazardous waste, despite the risk of being caught on CCTV. Recently a CCTV installation company in West…

Our parent company, The Clearway Group, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Cerberus Security. We are delighted to welcome them as the newest member of the group. Monitoring from a former ex MOD secret nuclear bunker, Cerberus Security operates one of the UK’s few NSI Gold Cat ll Alarm Receiving Centres, providing professional 24/7…

High Wycombe Magistrates Court found a pensioner guilty on May 18th for knowing a woman who was filmed illegally dumping waste in Burnham. The pensioner, who stated he was strongly against fly-tipping, said a friend used his car without his permission but refused to identify her after she was filmed fly-tipping. By not revealing the…

Willis Towers Watson hosted their annual football match where professionals within the Insolvency and Receivership industry had the opportunity to play on the premier league pitch at Crystal Palace football club. The game was held on the 17th May and kicked off at 12:45pm. With Team Purple being managed by Adam Humphreys and Team White…

Commercial properties particularly those under heavy use will require their fair share of maintenance and renovation work over a period of time, but what is and what isn’t permissible work when a tenant is occupying the property?   Things can go against the landlord if they are seen to be acting unreasonably by a court while…

On high streets up and down the UK shops are standing empty as are business units in areas where demand is low. So how do you attract new tenants to sign up in a tough market? The answer can be to use incentives to make renting your premises more appealing.   One thing is certain and…

A block of flats, in south London, required immediate attention when water started leaking from the roof into a tenant’s property. Unusually the property had a roof garden, and when it rained water-laid in soil would sit above the flats and it started to leak through. The original plan was to move the plants and…

Anti-social behaviour is a common problem for property managers and business owners and takes many forms including the after effects of joy-riders. Empty car parks are frequently occupied by gangs of ‘boy racers’ who will find any available space to prove their prowess and leave their mark with revving engines and screeching tyres. This is…

Side letters are often used in commercial property to grant certain concessions to tenants when certain aspects of a lease such as clauses or rent need to be adjusted. Even though the use of a side letter is common in these cases, it may not provide sufficient protection for landlords if a tenant decides to…

Experts have warned; buyers of new build properties are at risk to Japanese knotweed due to a legal loophole. Property owners wishing to sell their property are required to complete a TA6 property form, which declares whether the property or garden is, or has been, affected by the Japanese knotweed. In 2013, this form was…

Many asset owners will already be aware of the devastating effects that vandalism and arson can have on a business as it is expensive and time-consuming to deal with these. Deterring such crimes is difficult, however, as most vandalism, including graffiti and arson, occurs at night and on weekends when sites or properties are vacant….

Canterbury Archaeological Trust has been left devastated after a series of break-ins occurred in one week at the end of January when around 1,500 items of priceless archaeological artifacts were stolen. The thieves also ransacked the educational loans collection, disturbing 90% of the 200 boxes, stealing replica metal axes, pins, coins and other items including…

Clearway has attended some of the worst areas for fly-tipping whilst working for KCC. Last year, in Kent, there were around 19,938 incidents of fly-tipping, costing the taxpayer a total of £1,308,284 for removal of fly-tipped waste. Medway was noted as being one of the worst areas for fly-tipping in the South East. It had…

According to new research, by a Government organisation, more than 11,000 homes across the country have been lying empty for longer than a decade. This research also includes figures for both five years or more (23,000 empty properties) and again for two years or more (60,000 empty properties).

Understanding lease terminations, notice periods, and tenancy agreements is important in either residential or commercial property, as unlawful evictions or non-payment of rent could lead to a legal dispute. Particularly in commercial rentals, many businesses assume that they can end the tenancy at any point of their choosing, and a landlord may have a similar…

Warning to all Property Owners: Your empty property is at risk! Make sure you keep your vacant properties protected over the holidays as Christmas is a prime time for squatters and metal thieves to make their move. As the cost of metal rises so do cases of theft. Typically, burglaries and theft increase by 13% during…

Three men were caught on camera dumping a fridge, an old ironing board and many other items on the side of a country lane. Ms Gordon, a lady who was driving along the country lane, was forced to stop because a van was blocking her way whilst three men had stopped to remove their waste…

Commercial rent has a long history and this often throws up some unusual terms you might not have heard of such as ‘quarter days’. So if you are new to the world of commercial renting, here is a brief explanation of what the term means.   Quarter days have been in used in connection with commercial…

Amazon needed a high-tech deterrent to help prevent potential intrusion and anti-social behaviour in the public road used to access their distribution centre. Clearway’s solution was to install two site CCTV towers with cameras facing the entrance and exit of the multi-story car park where anti-social behaviour is common. Read more about retail CCTV solutions….

CRAR is one of the most effective ways to recover commercial property rent arrears, however, strict rules are in place that are not always easy to comply without giving your tenant some wriggle room.   Fortunately there are some alternative ways to recover rent arrears you can use to cover your losses or even gain the…

A new report has revealed that there are almost 30,000 homes left empty in Cornwall. One in ten homes is left vacant, this is 11.2% of the housing stock in the county. This will alarm the thousands of people of who are on housing waiting lists in Cornwall. Anti-social behaviour,  vandalism or neglect often turn…

Living alone and with mental health issues, it’s no wonder this tenant’s living conditions were left to deteriorate. The tenant who has lived in the property for 2 years suffers with a lighter fuel addiction which results in temporary loss-of body control and functions. As a result, the property was covered in rubbish, food, faeces…

There may be times where a leaseholder is struggling financially and they find themselves unable to continue paying their service charge in full each month. In these cases managing agents or directors will allow those leaseholders to pay by instalments. The question is, is this a good idea?   In some cases, the financial difficulties that…

If a landlord makes demands on their commercial tenants then those demands must be reasonable if they need to defend a case in court.   In the commercial property sector, the circumstances of tenants can change a lot over time. If say a business has a lease on a particular unit then they may wish to…

A request for us to provide a drug-detection dog unit demonstrates how no two days are the same at Clearway. Our client, a college, requested the sniffer dog to scout-out both the site and pupils in search of illegal substances and, in a single six-hour session, the dog found 15 separate indications of drugs on site….

Former Shedden Hall hotel, home to squatters and drug users, burns again. On the 26th September 2017 more than a dozen firefighters were called to battle another blaze at the former Shedden Hall hotel, Torquay. The hotel has been vacant for several years and is now a well-known squat and drug den. An investigation is…

Vacant properties are not confined only to the UK and the many problems associated with them are the same everywhere. Illegal occupation, vandalism, theft and wilful damage occur everywhere the temptation of an empty property exists. As the number of vacant properties continues to grow, so does Clearway and the news of our range of…

St Mary’s church, Shrewsbury, was hit by thieves twice in the space of 4 months during 2017. First in July, when 250ft² of lead was stolen from the roof of the church and again in September, 150ft². The historic fabric of the building was damaged and, in both cases, Battlesfield Cafe had to close while…

Oasis Academy Shirley Park’s Long Lane campus have been appealing for supporters to help raise money for the nursery’s new play area. The old play area left the children bringing muck into the classroom constantly. Clearway kindly lent a hand by sending some operatives to the nursery to assist with the clearance and clean-up of…

Clearway have recently secured the cheapest house in Britain which is available to buy for just £5,000. The two bedroom semi-detached house is based in the north east, in an area that suffers from a very high crime rate and has had its fair share of arson, fly-tipping and anti-social behavior. The property is missing its…

Clearway bikes finally find a home! The Calabar School in Jamaica is an all boys school, that ensures the best possible outcome for all their students through efficient use of resources. The core of garnering support for the high school is the Calabar Alumni and Friends Association UK, a not-for-profit organisation, set up by ex…

Japanese knotweed is one of the most invasive and destructive plants in the UK. Originally brought over here in the nineteenth century, it was imported to Britain to help hide, or possibly even stabilise, railway embankments. Japanese knotweed can crack tarmac, block drains, undermine foundations and invade homes. It’s presence can cut a property’s value…

Late payment excuses, most business owners have had them but should you give your customer the benefit of the doubt or have a strategy in place to deal with them? In our experience it should be the latter which is why we have put together this mini guide to how to deal with the typical…

For the third consecutive year, Gideon Reichental, Commercial Sales Manager at Clearway Services, has been elected as BSIA Chairman of Vacant Property Protection. As the landscape of property security has changed so has the need to provide a wider, more sophisticated range of security solutions, tailored to individual properties. The Vacant Property Protection section of…

When a local authority tenant was found to be living in squalid conditions, Clearway was called in at very short notice to clean an entire house from top to bottom. Extreme cleaning and hazardous waste removal on this scale requires a strong constitution, an unwavering commitment, attention to detail and dedication to carrying-out the absolute…

With the explosion in the number of leasehold properties around the country in recent decades, service charge arrears problems has increased. Knowing how and what to do to pursue debts from former owners is crucial for property management companies and fellow leaseholders if the property is part of a block of apartments. In the vast…

Summer is finally here and school holidays are upon us but what does that mean for schools? The school will be empty for six to eight weeks It will be vulnerable to unwanted intruders and squatters Unprotected against thieves stealing computer equipment Unguarded from vandals breaking in and covering the school corridors in graffiti This…

Most people who buy flats will enter into some form of leasehold agreement with a freeholder of a development which normally includes a requirement to pay service charges, ground rent. In an ideal world all leaseholders in a block of apartments will pay their ground rents and service charges on time, however there will be…

The Clearway brand has continued to evolve and is recognised as being reliable and trustworthy, with extremely high value placed on both quality and customer service. Having now finally received approval to attach signage to our headquarters building in Dartford, Kent, we have erected a seven-meter triangular sign facing the Dartford Crossing. Apparently the sign…

Covenants are terms included within a lease agreement, comprising a contract between the tenant and landlord, whether residential or commercial. While there are complexities between explicit and implied, restrictive and positive covenants, the outcome is that breaching any covenant can result in a lease forfeiture situation. Failure to pay is one of the common covenant…

You will find that there are several differences between letting commercial and residential properties when you are first starting out as a commercial property landlord. It’s important to be aware of those particular responsibilities you will be taking on to protect you from being caught out when pursuing arrears. The following is a guide to…

Ocado’s £250million depot in Dartford, Kent, was invaded by more than a dozen caravans, helping themselves to showering facilities, towels, food and drink. Using a van, they pulled away a giant boulder that was blocking the warehouse entrance to gain access. The intruders locked themselves in and turned away more than 40 staff members /…

The police often deal with difficult crime and trauma scenes. They can include murder, suicide, undiscovered deaths, accidents and terrorism which usually leave behind: human blood, bodily fluids & tissue, chemicals and infestations from maggots and flies. Dangerous items, such as weapons and drug-related paraphernalia, are frequently left at the scene to clear too. These…

Whilst the rumours that Japanese knotweed can grow through solid concrete foundations or break into underground water pipes are untrue, it is an extremely aggressive plant, growing at the rate of 1 meter every three weeks during its growing season. Where the plant finds its way into existing cracks in concrete, pathways and walls or…

The care home industry is in crisis. Since 2010, more than 380 have been declared insolvent and Care Homes continue to close at a steady rate. According to the Care Quality Commission, five hundred care homes have closed in the capital in the past decade. Almost 2,000 care homes in England have closed over the…

Knowing what to do when your commercial tenant goes into administration requires you to first to understand what administration means if you are not aware already. When a company goes into administration, directors will hand over control of the business to a third party. Any liabilities that company has will also be ringfenced, which means…

For the 2015 / 2016 year, local authorities dealt with 936 thousand fly-tipping incidents, a 4% increase over 2014 / 2015 and is continuing to rise. Residence could potentially face prosecution after fly tipping outside Northwich recycling centre following the Council’s decision to close the site on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Cheshire West and Chester Council…

Terrace Guest House, a former hotel in Royal Terrace, Essex was taken-over by squatters whilst the building was being refurbished. They immediately put up signs within the property claiming they had the right to live there. The squatters were accused of bringing crime and antisocial behaviour to the area before finally being evicted. The first…

In January 2017, we launched our brand new, refreshed website. With a great focus on helping our customers understand how we can help them, our new website now provides the full range of services covering vacant property security, vacant property solutions and temporary CCTV solutions. So what’s new? The new website is now much clearer,…

Foal Farm is a non-government funded animal sanctuary which rehomes many animals including dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, sheep, pigs and chickens. As part of the main project to refurbish the kennels they redesigned the main dog run to provide a more stimulating environment. Clearway decided to make a donation to Foal Farm and included the…

When an elderly pedestrian was struck by a speeding car at a sat of lights, one of our teams was quick to rush to his aid and provide assistance until the emergency services arrived. The speeding car overtook at the traffic lights and hit the pedestrian with such force, he was thrown into the air…

Hundreds of tonnes of rubbish were dumped by fly-tippers at a disused business park in south London in just nine days. Vandals broke-in to every single building, mindlessly vandalising the property and ripping-out cables and other metals to sell as scrap metal. The site was patrolled by one manned guard and a dog unit but…