As the property market begins to recover from the recession, 2010 promises to be a good year for houses. However, many vacant properties may not be eligible for letting as maintenance and security budgets for empty buildings was drastically cut during the recession. Problems such as mould and general disrepair aren’t the whole extent of it either – vandalism and in some cases squatting, can severely affect your chances of selling or letting.

Security experts Churchill Security say that despite the constraints of budget, security for vacant properties is of paramount importance. Signs of vacancy can attract break-ins, graffiti and all kinds of problems which may cost more to fix than they would to prevent. Something as simple as an alarm system or a CCTV camera can greatly improve your chances of keeping your property saleable.