Axa warns of ‘unusually high spike’ in crime at empty commercial premises

Axa has warned of a steep rise in the number of empty commercial properties being targeted by criminal gangs.

The insurer said criminal activity had been gradually increasing over the years, but had seen an “unusually high spike” in the last three months.

Fly tipping, vandalism and theft are among crimes to have been reported at sites across the country, resulting in thousands of pounds of damage.

And in one case around three months ago, a newly refurbished building owned by an Axa customer was targeted, with around £1m of damage caused.

Dougie Barnett, director of customer risk management at Axa Commercial, said: “It’s concerning to see a rise in criminal activity at vacant sites, both in terms of the number of premises being targeted and the level of violence involved.

“When the sites are used for fly tipping, all manner of rubbish can be dumped including chemicals and medical waste, requiring a professional clean-up operation which is costly and time-consuming.

“Thefts from these properties include valuable building materials such as copper pipe and electrical cabling, which are usually ripped out causing considerable damage.”

Working with customers

Axa said it was working with customers to make them aware of the issue and to help them protect their properties.

Around 500 vacant commercial premises that Axa insures are looked after by First Response Group, which has provided security services to the insurer for more than 20 years.

Chief executive Simon Alderson said protecting the sites was becoming increasingly challenging as the gangs become more organised and more violent.

He said: “Once a gang breaks into a site, word gets out that there’s somewhere to dump rubbish and it’s soon inundated. The situation has often escalated by the time the police arrive and the damage is already done.

“Proactive, visible security remains one of the most effective ways to deter this kind of criminal behaviour. But when gangs are determined and start using intimidation, even the most experienced teams can face serious challenges.

“Our canine security teams are highly trained to handle difficult situations, but there are times when things escalate.

“A few months ago, one of our officers was injured during an altercation - a stark reminder of the real risks involved and why strong, consistent site protection is so important.”