Five ways to protect your school before the summer holidays

Looking at Zurich Municipal claims data from 2021 to present, August presents a distinct risk profile compared to the rest of the year, making it a critical time to take preventative action.

Risks don’t take a holiday

Two property perils stand out during the summer months: escape of water and theft.

• Escape of water is the most common cause of claims in August, accounting for 24% of incidents, compared to 18% during the rest of the year. The average cost per claim is £19,600, highlighting the significant financial and operational impact even a single incident can have
• Theft also becomes more prevalent when sites are unoccupied. It makes up 13.4% of claims in August, compared to 8.8% across the rest of the year, with an average cost of £5,100 per claim

These increases are driven largely by reduced occupancy, fewer routine checks, and, in some cases, visible signs that a site is unattended.

Why summer increases exposure

Empty buildings are inherently more vulnerable. Without daily footfall, early warning signs - like a small leak or faulty pipe - can go unnoticed and escalate into major incidents.

Similarly, longer periods of inactivity can make school premises a more attractive target for opportunistic theft or vandalism, particularly where security measures aren’t regularly reviewed.

The financial impact is only part of the story. These events can delay reopening, disrupt autumn term planning, and divert valuable time and resource away from teaching and learning priorities.

Five practical steps to help mitigate risk

Taking a few proactive measures before closing for summer can help significantly reduce the likelihood and severity of claims:

1. Isolate water systems where possible

Shutting off the mains water supply (except where essential systems require it) can dramatically reduce the risk of escape of water incidents.

2. Carry out a thorough site inspection

Before closing, check roofs, gutters, pipes and internal plumbing for any signs of damage, leaks or deterioration.

3. Maintain regular checks during closure

Ensure the site is inspected periodically throughout the holidays. Even weekly visits can help identify issues early and prevent escalation.

4. Review security measures

Check that alarms, CCTV systems and locks are fully operational. Remove or securely store high-value items, particularly IT equipment.

5. Manage visibility and access

Keep external areas well maintained to avoid signalling that the site is unoccupied. Secure gates, fences and entry points.

Planning ahead for a safer return

While it’s impossible to eliminate risk entirely, understanding seasonal trends can help schools prioritise the right actions at the right time.

With escape of water incidents costing nearly £20,000 on average, and theft risks increasing significantly over the summer, it’s clear that a small investment in preparation can deliver substantial protection.

By taking steps now, schools can help ensure that when doors reopen in September, the focus remains firmly on learning, not recovery.