Site Access, Keys, Materials and Hired Equipment After Liquidation

Establish controlled access

Confirm who holds keys, gate codes, alarms and temporary-fence locks. After obtaining appropriate advice, change access arrangements and create a sign-in record for every visitor. Notify the administrator, insurer, certifier and relevant contractors of the new contact point.

Photograph the site before moving items. Record serial numbers, labels, quantities and apparent condition of valuable materials and equipment.

Determine ownership rather than assuming it

Materials fixed into the building will usually be treated differently from loose stock, hired equipment or goods supplied under retention-of-title terms. A kitchen delivered but not paid for may be claimed by the supplier; scaffolding, temporary fencing, toilets, bins and plant may be hired.

Ask the administrator and known suppliers to identify claims in writing. Do not sell, use or dispose of disputed items merely to clear the site.

Protect owner-funded materials

Locate invoices and proof of direct payment for appliances, tiles, fixtures or other owner-supplied goods. Move vulnerable items to secure storage only after photographing and recording the transfer. Keep transport and storage receipts.

Where an item is needed for evidence, record packaging, product codes and defects before installation or return. The insurer may need to know whether it was paid through the building contract or separately by the owner.

Coordinate removal and handover

Set reasonable collection procedures for verified third-party property, including appointment times, identification, photographs and signed records. Ensure removal does not damage insured work or disturb evidence. Have a competent person supervise disconnection of electrical, plumbing or structural equipment.

Update the site inventory after each event. A simple spreadsheet with item, claimant, evidence, action and date can prevent later disputes.

Practical takeaway: Secure the site promptly, but treat ownership as an evidence question. Controlled inventories and signed handovers protect both the building and the claim.

How ARK Houses can help

ARK Houses can establish a photographed site inventory and controlled access procedure before recovery work starts. We coordinate collection or movement of items so that disputed property, evidence and the unfinished building are not damaged during the handover.

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