Why Regular Empty Property Checks Matter – For Insurance, Holiday Homes, and Homes Between Owners
An empty property is a vulnerable one. Whether it’s a family home standing unoccupied while probate is settled, a holiday home sitting quiet between visits, or a property waiting to go on the market, unchecked homes are prone to problems that can escalate quickly — burst pipes, damp, break-ins, or simply the wear that comes from being left unattended for too long.
It’s one of the most practical, and often overlooked, services we provide at Dickory Dock: regular, reliable checks on empty properties across Glasgow and the surrounding area.
Many of our clients come to us through insurance requirements — most policies for unoccupied properties require evidence of periodic inspection, and without it, cover can be invalidated entirely just when it’s needed most. Others come to us simply because they own a second home or holiday let and want the reassurance that someone trustworthy is keeping an eye on things between stays.
A typical property check with us includes:
- Confirming the property is secure — doors, windows, and any alarm systems functioning correctly
- Checking for signs of water ingress, damp, or heating failures, particularly important through the colder months
- Clearing post, flyers, or anything that might signal an empty house to passers-by
- Running taps and flushing toilets where appropriate to keep systems working
- A written or photographic report after each visit, so you have a clear record for insurers or peace of mind
We tailor the frequency to what suits the property and your policy requirements, whether that’s weekly, fortnightly, or monthly visits. For clients living abroad or simply unable to get there themselves, it means one less thing to worry about.
If you own a property that’s standing empty right now — whether that’s for weeks or months — get in touch and we’ll talk through what a sensible check-in schedule would look like for your situation.