Grass is already growing, and if uncut, unkempt lawns, hedges or grounds surrounding properties attracts unwanted attention, particularly for properties that are temporarily vacant. VPS, a property management and site security services contractor, is reminding landlords and facilities managers that unmaintained, uncared-for sites are a security risk.
Gavin Pringle, Managing Director of VPS, says: “Securing a property that is temporarily vacant is not just about locks, alarms, and cctv. If lawns or grounds around a property are neglected, particularly with the Spring growth, then it attracts fly-tippers, vandals, opportunistic thieves, or even arsonists.”
The firm adds that over 60 fires a day occur in the UK in or by an empty property, and every 40 seconds an illegal fly-tip takes place. Earlier this year VPS created five new service areas including Grounds Services, comprising a team with 35 years’ experience in maintaining properties’ immediate environment, including clearing away rubbish, cleaning up graffiti and, yes, cutting the grass. Hard and soft landscaping, fencing, playground management, civic flower displays, hanging basket provision and maintenance, highway verge maintenance, cleaning and void clearances, also form part of the services which include an arboricultural division.
Gavin Pringle adds: “It is not just part & parcel of managing a good security strategy, but keeping grounds maintained and looked-after will also help find new tenants or buyers far more easily than a neglected, run down exterior.”
Visit www.vpsgroup.com.
