Why Boarding Up Your Commercial Property is a Risky Mistake

When a commercial property becomes vacant, owners often consider boarding it up as a quick security measure. While this might seem like a practical solution to deter trespassers, it actually does the opposite—advertising to the world that your building is empty and vulnerable.

At Live-in Guardians, we strongly advise against boarding up commercial properties. Instead, we recommend a proactive approach that ensures security while maintaining the value and usability of your asset. Here’s why boarding up can do more harm than good and how property guardians or caretakers provide a smarter alternative.

The Risks of Boarding Up Your Commercial Property

1. It Attracts Unwanted Attention

A boarded-up building is a clear signal that no one is present. This makes it an easy target for squatters, vandals, and thieves. Criminals know that a vacant property is less likely to have immediate consequences for break-ins, and once access is gained, removing them can be a costly legal battle.

2. Increased Risk of Vandalism and Crime

Graffiti, fly-tipping, and anti-social behaviour are common problems for visibly empty properties. A neglected building can quickly become a magnet for criminal activity, creating a security headache and further devaluing your asset.

3. Fire and Structural Damage Risks

Unoccupied buildings with restricted access are more susceptible to fire risks, either through arson or electrical faults that go unnoticed. Emergency services may also struggle to enter a heavily boarded-up property, increasing potential damage in the event of an incident.

4. Negative Impact on Property Value and Reputation

A boarded-up property sends the wrong message to potential investors, clients, or tenants. It gives the impression of neglect and decline, making it harder to lease or sell in the future. Surrounding businesses may also suffer from the negative perception of an abandoned building in the area.

5. Higher Insurance and Maintenance Costs

Insurers view vacant and boarded-up properties as high-risk, leading to increased premiums and stricter conditions. Regular maintenance becomes more difficult, and without active management, small issues like leaks or structural weaknesses can escalate into costly repairs.

A Smarter Alternative: Property Guardians and Caretakers

Instead of boarding up your commercial property, a more effective and cost-efficient solution is placing live-in Property Guardians or caretakers. This ensures that your building remains occupied, protected, and well-managed without the risks associated with vacancy.

1. 24/7 Security Presence

Having trusted Property Guardians living on-site provides a strong deterrent against trespassers. Their presence makes it clear that the building is actively used, reducing the likelihood of break-ins and vandalism.

2. Ongoing Maintenance and Upkeep

Guardians ensure that the property remains in good condition, reporting maintenance issues before they become serious problems. This prevents deterioration and helps retain the building’s long-term value.

3. Cost-Effective Solution

Using Property Guardians is significantly cheaper than hiring 24-hour security or dealing with the expenses that come with boarded-up buildings, such as repairs, legal fees, and high insurance premiums.

4. Simplifies Reoccupation or Sale

A property that remains occupied is much easier to repurpose, lease, or sell. There’s no need for costly reactivation processes that boarded-up buildings often require.

5. Maintains the Building’s Image

A well-kept, lived-in property helps maintain the reputation of the area, making it more attractive to potential tenants or investors. It avoids the stigma associated with abandoned commercial spaces.

Protect Your Property the Right Way

Boarding up your commercial property might seem like a simple fix, but it creates more risks than solutions. Instead, consider Property Guardians or caretakers as a proactive way to keep your building secure, maintained, and financially viable.

Live-in Guardians provides experienced and reliable Property Guardians who ensure your vacant commercial property remains occupied, protected, and in good condition. Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help safeguard your asset without the drawbacks of traditional security measures.