In the UK alone there are around 9000 fires each year in empty buildings. In addition, property is damaged, contents or fixtures are stolen and the properties or land are victim to vandalism, fly tipping and illegal occupation by squatters or travellers.
Water damage is a further concern particularly where maintenance and repairs are inadequate.
Property owners have a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of third parties entering the premises, whether they are employees, estate agents, surveyors, buyers, tradespeople or trespassers, and even children who decide to use the property as a playground.
In assessing the risk to your particular property (or properties) all major insurance providers look for the following: