How We Took Back Control of One of Basingstoke’s Most Targeted Vacant Sites
- Miles Khan
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Securing vacant buildings is never straightforward and Viewpoint in Basingstoke was a perfect example of just how challenging – and important – proper vacant property security really is.
Viewpoint was once a busy 1970s brutalist office block, but rising costs and a lack of demand for office space meant it eventually became completely empty. Like many derelict buildings, it quickly attracted unwanted attention and became a hotspot for break-ins, vandalism and trespassing by a mix of youths, urban explorers and other individuals.
This is where Offset Facilities Management stepped in to take full control of the situation.
Our Brief: Secure a High-Risk Vacant Building
The client’s instruction was clear: secure the site fully, prevent unauthorised access and reduce risk and liability for insurance purposes.
We began with a detailed site inspection and risk assessment, identifying every vulnerable point across the property including doors, windows, roof access, broken panels and structural weak spots. From there, we implemented a full vacant building security strategy.
All access points were boarded using OSB boards fixed with specialist security screws, and any other potential entry areas were made inaccessible. At this stage, the building appeared fully locked down – but the reality soon became more complex.
The Cat and Mouse Phase
Within days, boards were ripped down and intruders had gained access again. The building continued to be targeted, resulting in further damage and increasing safety risks.
With the building now owned by an investor, the pressure to maintain site security increased significantly. Repeated break-ins were not only dangerous but also created serious insurance and liability concerns.
We responded with ongoing reactive visits, repairing damaged boarding, reinforcing weak points and constantly re-evaluating how access was being gained. It quickly became clear that boarding alone would not resolve the issue.
Escalating to 24/7 Security and K9 Patrols
Following consultation with the client, the best solution was the introduction of 24/7 security with K9 patrols. We engaged our long-standing and trusted security contractors to provide continuous on-site coverage and active patrols throughout the property.
This allowed us to significantly reduce unauthorised access while we focused on further safety measures and site management.
Alongside security, we carried out:
Constant vacant property inspections
Clearing of debris and hazardous materials
Electrical testing and safety checks
Asbestos reports and surveys
Risk assessments and safety documentation
Ongoing re-boarding of new access points
Internal and external site clean-up
This layered approach is key to effective large-scale vacant property protection.
5 Months of Active Management
For five months, we maintained full control of the site, monitoring new risks, responding to attempted breaches and maintaining close communication between our team, the security contractors and the end client.
Every new vulnerability was quickly addressed, every breach repaired and every risk documented. This constant liaison ensured transparency, fast response times and consistent protection.
Over time, this proactive approach successfully ended the cycle of repeated break-ins and brought the site under control.
A Successful Outcome
The Viewpoint building has now been closed off for demolition and redevelopment into residential flats. While the building’s original purpose has come to an end, the project stands as a strong example of professional vacant site management and security control.
We delivered exactly what the client required: a safer, controlled environment with reduced liability and improved site integrity.
What This Project Taught Us
This job reinforced several key truths about securing derelict properties:
Vacant buildings attract risk quickly
Boarding alone is rarely enough
Layered security is essential
Constant monitoring prevents escalation
Strong communication between FM, security and client is critical
It also strengthened our knowledge of how to effectively stop the ongoing “cat and mouse” cycle often seen with unsecured sites.
Professional Vacant Property Security You Can Trust
This project highlighted our ability to manage complex, high-risk sites and deliver effective vacant property security solutions at scale.
Whether it’s short-term protection or long-term vacant site management, Offset Facilities Management provides structured, reliable and professional support that keeps properties secure and compliant.
If you’re responsible for an empty building and need expert guidance on securing it safely and effectively, our team is ready to help.
