The Rainiest Start to the Year Was the  Wettest on Record in some parts of the UK

It’s hard to ignore the weather headlines this year. With rain recorded somewhere in the UK every single day so far in 2026, it’s been an unusually wet and persistent start to the year - and it’s already having a noticeable impact on buildings, infrastructure, and property maintenance nationwide.

While rain is nothing new for the UK, extended periods of wet weather highlight an important reality: properties need consistent care, attention, and occupancy to remain protected.

At Blue Door Property Guardians, we understand how quickly vacant buildings can become vulnerable during harsh weather conditions — and why proactive property care matters more than ever.

The Hidden Impact of Constant Rain on Buildings

Ongoing rainfall may seem like a seasonal inconvenience, but for properties — especially those left empty — the risks can build up quietly over time.

Excess moisture can contribute to:

  • Damp and mould growth

  • Roof leaks and water ingress

  • Deterioration of internal walls and flooring

  • Timber decay and structural weakening

  • Increased repair costs if issues go unnoticed

In occupied homes, these problems are often spotted early. In vacant buildings, they can develop unseen until significant damage has already occurred.

Why Empty Properties Are Especially Vulnerable

When a building is left unoccupied, it isn’t just missing residents — it’s missing regular inspections and due diligence.

Without occupants who notice any small changes, minor issues such as a dripping pipe or condensation around a window can quickly escalate into serious and expensive repairs.

During prolonged wet weather, empty properties face higher risk of:

  • Undetected water damage

  • Faster deterioration due to lack of heating and ventilation

  • Increased likelihood of break-ins or vandalism

  • Insurance complications linked to long-term vacancy

In short, rain doesn’t just affect the outside of a building — it affects what happens when no one is there to care for it.

Occupancy as a Form of Protection

One of the most effective ways to protect a property is simple: keeping it occupied.

Blue Door Property Guardianship provides a practical solution by placing vetted guardians into vacant buildings, ensuring they remain:

  • Secure and occupied

  • Ventilated and cared for

  • Regularly monitored

  • Maintained through day-to-day presence

Blue Door Property Guardians help reduce the risks that come with long-term vacancy, particularly during challenging weather conditions like those we’ve seen throughout early 2026.

Preparing for a Changing Climate

With shifting weather patterns and more frequent periods of heavy rainfall, property care strategies are evolving.

It’s no longer enough to rely solely on occasional inspections or external security measures. Buildings benefit from consistent, responsible occupancy — especially when weather-related risks are rising.

Blue Door Property Guardianship offers a forward-thinking approach that supports:

  • Sustainable property management

  • Reduced environmental and repair costs

  • Protection of valuable buildings and spaces

  • Stronger community outcomes

Blue Door’s Commitment

At Blue Door Property Guardians, we work closely with property owners to ensure buildings remain safe, secure, and protected — whatever the season brings.

As the UK continues to experience one of its wettest starts to a year in recent memory, we remain committed to helping bring empty buildings back into use and ensuring they are cared for by our Management Team and reliable live-in Guardian Security.

Looking Ahead

Persistent rain is more than a talking point — it’s a reminder of how quickly buildings can be affected when left unattended.

Whether you’re a guardian living in one of our properties or a property owner seeking support for a vacant building, thoughtful property care has never been more important.

Because in a year where it’s rained every day, protection starts with presence.