Warning issued around entering disused buildings

Officers are reminding members of the public over the laws around trespassing in abandoned or derelict buildings and burglary in response to recent incidents in Worcestershire.

One incident saw three teenage boys arrested on suspicion of burglary last Thursday (28 May) after accessing a property undergoing renovation in Droitwich.

They were bailed pending further enquiries, but police are warning of the safety risks and potential criminality for anyone thinking of doing the same.

Abandoned and derelict buildings often contain unstable structures, exposed wiring, hazardous materials, and unsafe flooring and there is and high risk of serious injury from falls, collapsing walls or ceilings, and other environmental dangers.

It can also place the emergency services at additional risk when responding to incidents in unsafe environments.

In terms of the law, entering a building without permission may constitute criminal trespass or burglary, depending on the circumstances.

Causing damage to property, whether intentional or reckless, can result in charges of criminal damage and individuals found inside such buildings may also be subject to arrest if tools or items associated with forced entry are present.

Safer Neighbourhood Inspector for Droitwich Lisa Hornberger said: “We would like to remind members of the public around the laws and safety risks around entering abandoned buildings following some recent incidents.

“We are discouraging people from committing an unlawful entry and encouraging parents to speak to their children around this too.

“We cannot emphasise enough that such behaviour can lead to both serious harm and/or criminal prosecution.”