Frequently Asked Questions

Ambika specialises in protecting vacant property. Securing an empty property quickly and effectively is important. Ambika has the experience and personnel to allow us to secure, occupy and vacate a property at a few hours notice.

WHY PROTECT VACANT PROPERTY?

Squatters, vandals and thieves often target empty properties causing damage and delays to disposal and re-development schedules.

Protecting the property using residential security prevents un-authorised access and can reduce insurance premiums. Re-possessing squatted property is often a lengthy and costly process that causes delays in development projects and jeopardises property sales.

Squatters and the Law

Amendments to the rules relating to squatters are contained in Chapter 33, Part V (Public Order: Collective Trespass or Nuisance on Land) of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act of 1994. Additional regulations relating to squatting are contained in the Criminal Law Act 1977.

Basically, if a property is vacant and unused then it has the potential to be squatted, and the owners will need to obtain a Possession Order, granted by a County Court or High Court. The Order will need to be served on the occupants of the property before they can be evicted. This is a costly and sometimes lengthy process.

Vandals and squatters often cause significant damage to the interior of the building, smash windows and spray graffiti on walls.

A number of properties protected by Ambika contain valuable architectural features, industrial plant and household items. Ambika caretakers are trained to patrol the property and monitor valuable items.

Replacing architectural features is often impossible, and damage caused by vandals increases insurance premiums. Without being “lived-in” the structural integrity of the building and operation of heating systems deteriorates, often requiring significant investment to correct the problems caused by lack of use.

Travellers target open spaces capable of providing parking for vehicles. Once in occupation sites are quickly turned into rubbish disposal areas, and clean up costs can be significant.