The number of vacant houses has been increasing year by year. Leaving one unattended simply because "other people are leaving vacant houses as they are" is extremely dangerous. Here, we explain the risks of leaving a vacant house unattended and the correct points of vacant house management that professionals should practice.This is essential knowledge for everyone involved in real estate management operations.
What risks arise when a vacant house is left unattended?
Neglecting vacant house management creates serious risks for owners. As management professionals, it is important to understand these risks accurately and fulfill your responsibility to explain them to owners.
The property's asset value declines rapidly
Even when a building is not in use, deterioration still progresses.In fact, deterioration accelerates more in a sealed environment where no one comes and goes. Moisture accumulates indoors, mold spreads, and even building materials such as flooring can be damaged. A combination of issues, including warped doors and foul odors caused by evaporated water seals in plumbing fixtures, can significantly impair the property's asset value.
Legal risk arising from owner liability
The owner of a vacant house bears "owner liability." If a building collapses, a concrete block wall falls, or debris blown by strong winds causes personal injury, the owner may be held responsible even if there was no intent.Please recognize the risk of facing claims for damages due to inadequate management as a real and present concern.
The risk of designation as a "specified vacant house" and compulsory removal
Under the Special Measures Act on Promotion of Measures for Vacant Houses, enacted in 2015, poorly managed vacant houses may be designated as "specified vacant houses." Once designated, the property may be forcibly demolished, and the costs will be charged to the owner.This is a double risk: not only losing the land and building, but also bearing the related expenses. As a management professional, it is important to communicate this risk to owners at an early stage.
What are the four points of vacant house management practiced by professionals?
Many people say they do not know what should be done in vacant house management, but if you understand the basic points, you can respond systematically. Here are four actions that should be standardized as part of management operations.
Carry out regular ventilation
The greatest cause of deterioration in a vacant house is moisture.Regular ventilation at least once a month is the basic standard. In addition to opening windows and doors, be sure to open shoe cabinets, closets, and storage spaces as well to replace the air throughout the entire house. After ventilation, always confirm that the property is locked. Checklist management built around this combination of "ventilation + lock confirmation" is the key to maintaining consistent management quality.
Run water through the plumbing (periodic water use)
If water pipes are not used, rust progresses and in the worst case they may burst.In addition, when trap seals evaporate, sewer odors can flow back in and create breeding grounds for pests. At a minimum, water should be run from each faucet once a month, and a "water flow inspection" to check the condition of the drainage pipes should be incorporated into management operations.
Indoor cleaning and garden maintenance
Dust is a source of nourishment for mites and mold. By carrying out indoor cleaning regularly together with ventilation, the rate of deterioration of building materials can be significantly reduced.If a garden is left unattended, weeds will overgrow and may lead to pest outbreaks and problems with neighbors. We recommend clearly specifying mowing and pruning in the management schedule as well.
Thorough crime prevention measures
Vacant houses that are not being managed are more likely to become targets for criminals.To prevent risks such as arson, trespassing, and use as a criminal base, security film installation, auxiliary locks, and regular in-person patrols are effective. Leaving visible signs that "someone is managing the property" serves as a deterrent.
The option of using a management outsourcing service
If it is difficult for the owner to manage the property personally, proposing the use of a management outsourcing service is also an important role of a management company.By comparing multiple plans and showing owners the criteria for choosing a trustworthy company, such as track record, qualifications, and reviews, you can also provide meaningful service value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How many visits per month are sufficient for vacant house management?
A. At least one visit per month is the basic standard. Ventilation, water flow, and exterior checks should be carried out as a set. Depending on the surrounding environment, there are cases where two visits per month are preferable.
Q. What happens if a property is designated as a specified vacant house?
A. The municipality will issue recommendations and orders, and ultimately compulsory removal may be carried out through administrative execution. The full cost is borne by the owner. It is important to begin proper management before designation occurs.
Q. What criteria should be used when selecting a management outsourcing company?
A. Please confirm four points: years of experience, number of managed properties, transparency of the fee structure, and emergency response capability. Whether visit reports are submitted is also an important criterion for judgment.
Q. Who is responsible if an accident occurs during vacant house management?
A. In principle, the owner bears responsibility, but depending on the terms of the management consignment agreement, there are cases in which negligence on the part of the management company may also be questioned. It is essential to clearly define the scope of responsibility in the contract.
