The short answer
A void property checklist makes sure an empty home is secure, safe and ready for the next tenant. For locks and plumbing, the key steps are: secure the property on day one, change or rekey all locks, test every tap, toilet and waste, check the stopcock, drain down if the home will stay empty in cold weather, and record everything for the file. The checklist below is written for housing associations, councils and larger landlords.
Day one: secure the void
- Collect all keys from the outgoing tenant and record how many were returned.
- Change the front and back door cylinders or rekey mortice locks.
- Check doors and frames for damage and secure any weak points.
- Check window locks and fit missing keys or restrictors.
Plumbing checks
| Item | What to check |
|---|---|
| Stopcock | Located, labelled and turns fully |
| Taps | No drips, cartridges or washers sound |
| Toilets | Flush works, no running, pan seal sound, seat secure |
| Wastes | Sinks, basins, baths and showers drain freely |
| Visible pipework | No leaks, corrosion or poor joints |
| Cold water tank (if any) | Lid fitted, float valve working, no overflow |
| Shower | Flow and temperature steady, seals and silicone sound |
If the home will stay empty
- Drain down in cold weather, or keep low background heat, to prevent frozen pipes.
- Leave the stopcock off and label it.
- Arrange regular inspections and keep a log.
Before the new tenant moves in
- Turn the water back on and check for leaks.
- Run every tap to flush the system.
- Test locks with the new keys and record key numbers.
- Photograph completed work for the void file.
Why use one contractor for both trades?
Using one accredited contractor for locks and plumbing reduces visits, keeps reports in one place and speeds up void turnaround. We are CHAS accredited, SafeContractor approved and Constructionline Gold, and we work with housing associations, councils and agents across London and the Home Counties.
Related service: sectors we work with.
A few common questions
What should a void property checklist include?expand_more
For locks and plumbing, it should cover securing the property, changing or rekeying all locks, checking window locks, testing taps, toilets, wastes and showers, checking the stopcock, draining down in cold weather if needed, and recording everything with photos and key numbers for the file.
Should locks be changed in every void property?expand_more
Yes, in most cases. Housing providers cannot be sure every key was returned, so changing cylinders or rekeying mortice locks protects the property while empty and gives the new tenant confidence that they control access. Record key numbers for each new lock.
How do you stop pipes freezing in an empty property?expand_more
Either drain the system down or keep low background heating on during cold weather. Turn off and label the stopcock. Carry out regular inspections and keep a log, so any problem is spotted quickly before it causes major damage.
Why use one contractor for void locks and plumbing?expand_more
One contractor for both trades means fewer visits, one point of contact and one report for the file. This shortens void turnaround times and reduces admin for housing associations, councils and agents. Choose a contractor with accreditations such as CHAS and Constructionline Gold.
What accreditations should a void repairs contractor have?expand_more
Housing providers often ask for health and safety accreditations such as CHAS or SafeContractor, plus Constructionline for procurement. Proof of public liability insurance is also standard. These show the contractor has been checked and can work safely on your properties.