Vacant Properties

In a vacant property any damage is likely to be exacerbated by the length of time it takes for the damage to be noticed and repaired. Covid-19 and the introduction of national lockdowns meant that 2020 saw a dramatic increase in the number of buildings being left vacant for an extended period, with little or no warning and time to prepare and has meant that de-commissioning of the building and services were not undertaken.

During this session we will highlight the common hazards found in vacant properties and share the processes and procedures that have a proven track record of reducing the risks on landlords needing to make a claim whilst properties are empty. In addition the webinar will touch on the measures that can be taken from a operational perspective to reduce costs and mitigate risks from a property management perspective.

Learning objections

By attending this webinar delegates will be able to identify:

• the role a surveyor can play in reducing claims related to vacant properties
• how to mitigate risks and reduce operational costs to vacant buildings and the processes around property management which can contribute to this
• the importance of a working relationship, with regular communication, between the tenant, landlord and insurer
• what can be done to buildings left vacant to quickly reduce their risk.

Speaker biographies

Robert Burke - Head of project and building consultancy

Robert is head of the project & building consultancy team at Cluttons. With over 20 years’ experience as a chartered surveyor Rob specialises in providing strategic advice to clients to reduce risk, maximise opportunities and ensure assets retain their value.

Ryan Jones - Head of rating, North

Ryan is a chartered surveyor with over 15 years’ experience of providing a complete rating service and has substantial experience of advising a diverse range of clients across all property sectors in relation to all business rates matters. Ryan specialises in the provision of empty rates advice nationally.

James Cole - Senior surveyor, commercial & strategic asset management

James manages a number of mixed used portfolio, across all sectors, advising on day-to-day property management concerns such as rent collection, service charge management, insurance and security. In addition he provides strategic asset management to the property landlords, ranging from high net worth individuals to third sector organisations, to ensure the property retains value.

Please note: This event is a regional collaboration between the local institutes in the area. Your booking details will be shared with the Insurance Institute of Chelmsford and South Essex, which is acting as the host institute for this event.