Vacant Property Archieven

In the ever-evolving landscape of the UK’s business and real estate sector, the challenge of managing vacant commercial property is more pressing than ever. Recent statistics reveal that over 165,000 privately-owned commercial and business spaces are unoccupied, which can be attributed to market shifts, relocations, or strategic decisions. The rising vacancy rates in commercial properties across the UK underscore the urgent need for a proactive and strategic approach to safeguarding these assets. At Dex Property Management, we stand as a reliable partner in addressing this growing concern and our tailored services cater to the needs of property owners and those engaged in property ownership, ensuring comprehensive support in navigating the challenges posed by market dynamics and vacancy issues.

UNDERSTANDING THE CHALLENGE

In the face of an increasing number of vacant commercial properties in the UK, businesses confront a critical challenge in safeguarding these assets from potential risks such as vandalism, theft, and deterioration. Recognising the urgency, effective property management becomes crucial, requiring a comprehensive approach that extends beyond conventional security measures. Ensure the longevity of your property with our proactive strategies tailored for property owners seeking robust solutions.

PROPERTY GUARDIANSHIP

Property guardianship, a proactive and cost-effective solution, entails placing carefully vetted individuals on-site in vacant commercial spaces. Our innovative guardianship program harnesses this approach, resulting in a significant reduction in security incidents and costs. Our dedicated on-site guardians not only ensure security but also actively contribute to the transformation of empty buildings into vibrant, well-maintained spaces, providing property owners with a dynamic solution to the challenges of vacancy.

SECURITY SOLUTIONS

Leveraging state-of-the-art technology and integrating advanced security systems is crucial for the protection of commercial property. Security solutions must be tailored to the unique needs of each commercial property and, when executed correctly, will undoubtedly lead to a reduction in reported security breaches. Dex Property Management’s comprehensive security measures, characterised by cutting-edge technology and meticulous customisation, offer round-the-clock monitoring, ensuring peace of mind for property owners. Our commitment to innovative solutions extends beyond conventional measures, providing a robust framework for enhanced security and comprehensive property protection.

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Ensuring the value of vacant commercial properties is of utmost importance. When properties stand empty, they are prone to a range of issues like deterioration and vandalism. To counteract these risks, a proactive strategy involving regular inspections and dedicated maintenance is indispensable. By prioritising property management in this way, you can mitigate potential damages but also cultivate optimal conditions for future use. This emphasis on maintenance is instrumental in preserving the overall well-being and sustained value of vacant commercial properties.

COST-EFFECTIVE COLLABORATIVE SOLUTIONS

We recognise the financial considerations inherent in managing vacant properties and the most optimal strategy is one that combines effectiveness with cost-efficiency. Businesses, through the implementation of property guardianship, have witnessed a substantial decrease in security costs when repurposing vacant spaces. Our commitment to upholding asset integrity remains steadfast without imposing undue strain on budgets. We adopt a collaborative approach, working closely with businesses to discover solutions tailored to their unique needs and aligned seamlessly with their goals.

As the UK grapples with rising vacancy rates in commercial properties, Dex Property Management is a beacon of reliability, offering solutions that transcend conventional property management. Together, let’s transform challenges into opportunities and secure a prosperous future for your commercial assets. Please get in touch to discuss how we can help you to combat the challenges faced during these turbulent times.

UK councils are set to increase council tax on empty property by to up to 300% as they are given increased powers to get tough on empty houses.

From April 2019 councils across the country will be allowed to charge additional council tax on empty homes. This follows Peers backing of an amendment to the Rating (Property in Common Occupation) and Council Tax (Empty Dwelling) Act 2018, giving councils the power to increase council tax levied on property that remains ‘unoccupied and substantially unfurnished’.

Empty Property Council Tax Changes.

Under the new plans, empty homes premium thresholds on council tax bills for homes left empty for between two and five years can increase from 50 per cent to up to 100 per cent.

For homes empty for between 5 and 10 years, councils are able to increase the premium by up to 200 per cent and up to 300 per cent for homes empty for 10 years or more. There are currently over 11,000 properties empty for over 10 years across the UK.

Birmingham City council is one council set to double council tax for landlords of empty property. It is estimated that the new proposal could increase council tax revenue for the city by £1.15m per year.

Brighton and Hove City council, Gloucestershire County Council, Stoke City Council and Reading Council are amongst many of the councils who have already announced increase tax on empty homes. With many more up and down the country planning to introduce the rise over the next few weeks.

Government Backing for Tax Changes.

The changes come after a recent poll showed 86% of MPs agreed that the government should be placing a higher priority on bringing empty homes back into use. Cabinet member, Jennie Watkins said: “Homes that are standing empty not only often attract anti-social behaviour or vandalism but are also often places that could make perfectly good homes for people that are homeless.”

Property Guardianship can provide Property Owners with an effective, cost efficient and professional solution to temporarily manage empty buildings while a more long term use is established.

The Property Guardian Solution.

At DEX Property Management, we place extensively vetted Property Guardians into vacant buildings to protect the property from squatting, vandalism and dilapidation. All at no cost to Property Owners. In return, Property Guardians benefit from affordable and flexible accommodation. It is a win-win situation.

Once Property Guardians are protecting the property the building is classed as occupied and the council will be informed. The property will not be subject to the premium as it is no longer classed as void.

For more information about how property guardians can reduce the risks, costs and complexities of managing your empty home, please call 0800 0855 994. Or email hello@dexpropertymanagement.co.uk