Protecting Vacant Real Estate Property

In a time when layoffs and foreclosures are widespread, your firm may be forced to manage vacant real estate. The insurance risks and liabilities associated with owning vacant property can be extensive, and to ensure you are adequately protected, it is important to know these risks. In addition to purchasing vacant property insurance coverage, there are numerous preventive strategies for maintaining vacant properties to reduce risk and liability.

Risks of Vacant Property

Owners of vacant property in Ontario have a host of risks and concerns. Vacant buildings are an obvious target for theft, trespassing and vandalism. In addition to any loss or property damage that may occur, keep in mind that the owner of a property can be held liable for criminal activities or accidents that take place on the premises.

Also, vacant properties are susceptible to undetected damages, such as fire, water damage, electrical explosions, wind or hail damage and mould. Many of these incidents occur in vacant buildings due to small, undetected maintenance issues (where someone in an occupied building would have recognized and handled the problem before it caused a larger loss).

In certain facilities, there may also be environmental hazards that the owner needs to consider. Facilities that are used to store chemicals or other pollutants should ensure that such materials are removed or securely stored—the owner may be held liable for any hazardous materials that contaminate groundwater or other nearby natural resources. Also, underground fuel tanks present serious challenges and should be frequently and carefully inspected by professionals.

Other Ways to Mitigate Risk

In addition to extending coverage, there are some simple steps that owners of vacant properties can take to limit their risk and liability.

• ‍Prevent vandalism – Notify local authorities of vacated properties so they can watch for criminal behaviour. Maintain an “occupied” appearance to the property—mow the lawn, have mail forwarded or picked up regularly, and install light timers and/or a security system.
• ‍Limit liability – Make sure property is free from significant hazards (broken railings or steps, broken windows, etc.) that could cause injuries to anyone on the property—this could include police officers, maintenance workers, firefighters or even trespassers.
• Avoid damage – Performing regular maintenance on the property can decrease the odds of damage. Make sure the heating system and chimney are cleaned and inspected regularly. Have the plumbing system winterized to prevent frozen pipes. Periodically inspect roof, insulation, attic, basement, gutters and other areas of the house for any necessary repairs, mould, damage or other problems. Consider installing smoke detectors that are tied to a centrally monitored fire alarm system so the fire department will be notified in case of an alarm. Remove all access material and combustibles from in and around the building.

Insuring Residential Properties

Insurance companies may include a clause that the homeowner’s insurance will expire if a home is left vacant for more than 30 or 60 days (depending on the policy). This leaves the property owner financially vulnerable for all the risks previously noted. However, many insurance companies do offer vacant property insurance (also known as vacant building insurance or vacant dwelling insurance).

Unoccupied Commercial Building Insurance

Vacant commercial buildings are more difficult to insure because they present greater risks, including an increased chance of theft, malicious damage and burst pipes. It is important to disclose all relevant facts when seeking insurance, including the reason for the property’s vacancy and a schedule of any works to be done on the property.

Because of the increased risks and liabilities associated with a vacant property, these types of insurance tend to be costly, ranging from one and a half to five times the cost of a property insurance policy. It is important, though, to look beyond the price and consider the suitability and comprehensiveness of the coverage being purchased.

For more information about vacant property insurance and other strategies to help protect your assets and mitigate loss, contact Scrivens today or request a vacant property insurance quote for Ontario property owners.