Protecting your commercial property doesn’t always mean developing financial strategies or careful tenant selection – sometimes it means physically protecting your property.
Theft and break-ins are all too common – but investing in security systems can be an important proactive step in protecting the success of your property.
In this guide, we’ll explore the various aspects of commercial property security, including responsibilities, insurance considerations, and practical measures you can implement to safeguard your investment.
Who is Responsible?
Most tenants install security items such as floodlights and cameras themselves. However, if a landlord wishes to install them or is required to do so as a result of insurance conditions or risk assessment, then the tenant is typically required to maintain these systems.
In either case, it’s still essential for both landlords and tenants to carefully review the lease agreement to understand their specific obligations.
- To avoid instances of confusion, it’s crucial for both parties to:
- Clearly define responsibilities for security measures.
- Maintain open communication about any changes to security services.
- Consider seeking professional advice to fully understand obligations under the lease.
By taking these steps, landlords and tenants can ensure a clear understanding of their respective responsibilities, thereby enhancing the overall security of the commercial property and protecting their interests.
Break-in Incidents
Commercial property theft or robbery can cost you more than just the damage to fixtures and fittings – it can also lead to loss of business if your tenant is unable to trade while repairs are underway.
If your commercial property has been broken into, you should:
- Report the incident to the police as soon as possible.
- Complete an insurance claim as soon as possible.
- Ensure you and your tenant make a detailed list of what has been stolen or damaged.
- Review your security measures or replace/upgrade doors/windows/locks to prevent future break-ins.
However, there might be instances where a vacant commercial property experiences a break-in.
While the property might not hold anything of significant value, empty properties are still at risk for:
- Theft and vandalism
- Antisocial behaviour (such as graffiti)
- Squatters
In these cases, security measures should be taken or reviewed and further efforts to tenant the property should be made.
Insurance Considerations
The necessity of specific security measures often depends on the requirements of the building and the conditions of the insurance. Certain security measures may be a requirement for higher-risk premises.
It’s important to note that if a break-in impacts the building structure, the landlord’s building insurance would typically cover this damage. It’s crucial to understand that building insurance does not cover any tenant fitout, stock, or fixtures and fittings – the tenant’s own insurance policy should cover these.
If security improvements are completed, it may result in higher than usual excesses for break-ins rather than lower premiums. Both landlords and tenants should thoroughly review their insurance policies and understand the security-related clauses and requirements.
Physical Security Measures
There are several different approaches you can take to protecting your commercial property:
Access control systems
These systems regulate entry to designated areas, preventing unauthorised access. In multi-tenant properties, access control secures the base building, including entryways, common areas, utility closets, amenity spaces, and tenant areas. From keycard access to biometric systems, the options are diverse and scalable.
Security lighting
Lighting for exterior areas is a cost-effective yet powerful deterrent. Flood lighting is essential for exterior areas, parking lots, entrances, and emergency exits. Motion-sensor lighting is also particularly effective in less trafficked areas.
Security cameras
CCTV cameras strategically placed throughout the premises offer real-time monitoring capabilities. They not only deter potential threats but also provide crucial evidence in case of incidents.
Vehicle access
Installing concrete bollards or key-card access creates an effective barrier against unauthorised vehicles coming into the property.
Choose Azure Property
Ensuring your commercial property is equipped with security is an important part of protecting your investment and ensuring the long-term success of your property.
At Azure, our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping landlords navigate security challenges effectively. We offer expert guidance to help you understand your responsibilities as a landlord, address security concerns, and ensure your property remains safe and successful.
Have questions about your property? Get in touch with our team to see how we can help!