Insurance and risk management solution for vacant commercial site

The Challenge

A commercial property faced significant security and insurance risks following its impending closure. The property owner struggled to secure affordable insurance cover as insurers viewed the unoccupied site as high-risk. As well as ground-floor windows being seen as a particular vulnerability, the fire alarm system was faulty, and combustible materials had been left on site which breached insurer requirements.

Our Approach

Working with alongside a major insurance broker, our Insurance Services team developed a hybrid security model combining technology and human presence. We initially deployed static guards whilst installing temporary monitored alarm systems (RemoteZone) across the property. We then recruited property guardians to live on site under licence agreements, providing visible occupation and deterrent effect at significantly lower cost than permanent security personnel. A head guardian was appointed to conduct weekly fire alarm tests and provide emergency services access. We simultaneously implemented physical security improvements, boarding vulnerable ground-floor windows, repairing fire alarm faults, and clearing combustible materials to satisfy insurer requirements.

The Outcome

The property guardian solution delivered effective 24-hour security at a fraction of traditional guard costs whilst satisfying insurer occupancy requirements. The visible presence of residents deterred break-ins and vandalism, with guardians helping to maintain an inhabited appearance while also providing real-time communication about security concerns.