How Can You Prepare Vacant Commercial Properties for Winter in the UK?

Winter is coming, and if you’re a commercial landlord with an empty property, now’s the time to prepare. It’s easy to forget about a vacant space, but winter in the UK can be harsh, and leaving your property unchecked could lead to costly damage. From burst pipes to damp issues, cold weather can turn an empty building into a financial nightmare. So how can you prepare vacant commercial properties for winter?

Here’s a simple guide to making sure your vacant commercial property survives the winter months, avoiding those unnecessary expenses and keeping everything in good shape.

1. Don’t Forget About the Heating

It might seem strange to heat an empty building, but this one step could save you a ton of hassle later. If you turn the heating off completely, you run the risk of pipes freezing and bursting, which can lead to a lot of damage (and a hefty repair bill).

• Keep the heating on low—around 10°C should be enough to prevent any issues.
• Make sure to check the boiler and radiators before it gets too cold, so they’re working efficiently. A quick maintenance check now is better than an emergency repair later.

If you’re planning to switch the heating off, drain the water systems to avoid freezing pipes altogether. Either way, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

2. Check the Roof and Gutters Before It’s Too Late

When was the last time you checked the roof or cleaned the gutters? If you’re like most people, probably not recently enough. But with the rain and snow that winter brings, a neglected roof can lead to leaks, dampness, and expensive structural damage.

• Clear out any debris from the gutters—leaves, sticks, and other blockages can cause water to overflow, damaging walls and foundations.
• Look for any missing roof tiles or signs of wear and tear. It’s much easier (and cheaper) to fix small problems now than deal with water damage later on.

3. Secure Doors and Windows

Vacant properties are prime targets for break-ins, especially during the winter when fewer people are around. And cold drafts sneaking through poorly sealed windows and doors can lead to frost damage inside the property.

• Check for any gaps or drafts around doors and windows and seal them up. This will keep the property warmer and avoid potential damp problems.
• Make sure locks are sturdy and security systems are in working order. If needed, add extra measures like motion sensors or outdoor lighting.

4. Tackle Damp Before It Gets Worse

Winter in the UK means moisture. Damp and mould thrive in cold, wet conditions, and once they take hold, they’re hard to get rid of. Plus, it’s a huge turn-off for potential tenants.

• Check for any signs of damp or mould, like peeling wallpaper or a musty smell, and deal with it before the problem grows.
• Insulate the building properly to help maintain a steady temperature, preventing condensation and the buildup of moisture.

Consider using dehumidifiers to keep humidity levels low, especially if the property is prone to dampness.

5. Pay Attention to Outdoor Spaces

It’s not just the inside of your property that needs attention. Ice, snow, and winter storms can also cause damage outside.

• Check pavements, parking lots, and pathways for cracks. Water can freeze in these cracks, making them worse and causing a hazard.
• Trim back trees and bushes near the building to prevent them from falling or damaging the property during high winds or storms.

Consider salting walkways to keep them safe if anyone does visit the property.

6. Test Alarms and Emergency Systems

The last thing you want is a fire or carbon monoxide leak in an empty building with no one around to spot it.

• Test the fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re working properly.
• If your property has emergency lighting or backup systems like generators, give them a test run before they’re needed.

7. Think About Temporary Uses for the Property

One of the best ways to protect your vacant property is to make sure it’s not actually sitting empty. Temporary use keeps it maintained and reduces the risk of vandalism or neglect.

For example, you could get involved with a project like Verity’s Place of Worship Solution, which helps connect landlords with faith communities in need of temporary space. By offering your vacant building as a prayer space, you’re helping the community while keeping your property in use and maintained throughout the winter. You’ll also save 100% on business rates too. 

8. Visit Regularly or Hire Help

Even if you’ve prepped your building for winter, it’s still important to check on it regularly. If you don’t have the time, consider hiring a property management company to make sure things stay in order.

• Schedule regular inspections to catch any issues early on.
• Ensure your insurance is up to date, especially for winter-related risks like flooding or storm damage.

Winter-proofing a vacant commercial property doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few small steps can save you big money in the long run and prevent major problems when the colder months roll in. By following these tips, you’ll protect your investment and keep it in good condition, ready for when a new tenant comes along.

Vacant building? If you’re struggling with the burden of an empty commercial property, we have an innovative solution that can reduce your empty property rates by 100%. Get in touch to find out more.