Royal & SunAlliance is developing an inspection service for unoccupied properties.

Royal & SunAlliance (R&SA) is developing an inspection service for unoccupied properties.

The insurer is looking to shore up its property investors’ business in the face of a slump in commercial property prices.

The inspection service, which is currently being piloted, is part of the insurer’s plans to take into account the impact of a slowdown in the sector.

Nigel Salisbury, R&SA director of property investors, said: “We are trying to add to our proposition things which could be of interest in a downturn, for example there will be greater numbers of vacant buildings.”

He added the service would look to tackle the risk management issues that were raised by unoccupied premises.

Insurers and brokers remain optimistic that they can weather a slow down in the commercial property sector.

Salisbury said: “We haven’t seen a lot of impact yet [from the downturn].

“Some construction and development projects will be put on hold. Property owners are being cautious. But we are not reviewing our projections downwards in 2008.”

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.