Boarding Up FAQs

If you need emergency boarding up in South West London and have questions, this page will help. We answer the most common queries about boarding up services, what to expect on site, timings, costs, insurance paperwork and safety. Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord or shop owner, our goal is to make emergency securing simple and stress-free.

If your situation is urgent, please don’t wait for an answer—Call 020 4538 6452.

Quick overview

  • We cover all SW postcodes (SW1–SW20), including Battersea, Clapham, Wandsworth, Wimbledon, Putney, Brixton, Fulham and more.
  • 24/7 availability for out-of-hours boarding up and same day boarding up.
  • Non-destructive securing wherever possible, with anti-tamper fixings designed so they can’t be easily removed from outside.
  • Plywood or OSB boarding, temporary steel doors and steel security screens for higher-risk or vacant properties.
  • Insurance-friendly paperwork: time-stamped photos, itemised invoice and a brief work statement. Keep your police reference number if applicable.

For a deeper look at services, see our boarding up services in South West London or our dedicated pages for window boarding, door boarding up and shopfront boarding.

What is boarding up?

Boarding up is a temporary method of securing damaged or vulnerable openings—like broken windows, doors or shopfronts—using sheet materials (typically plywood or OSB) fixed with anti-tamper screws to prevent entry and keep the property safe and weather-resistant. It’s often used after break-ins, vandalism, storms, fire or accidental damage. For more detail, see our plain-English guide: What is boarding up?

How long does it take to board up a property?

Most single openings can be secured in 45–90 minutes from arrival, depending on size, access and the condition of the frame. Multiple openings or high-level work can take longer, especially if ladders or a small access tower are needed. We work efficiently and safely to complete the job on the first visit.

Do you offer 24/7 emergency boarding up?

Yes. Our team provides 24/7 emergency boarding up in South West London. We operate day and night, including weekends and bank holidays. While we don’t promise fixed arrival times, we dispatch promptly across SW postcodes and keep you updated.

What materials do you use—plywood or OSB?

We typically use structural-grade plywood or OSB boards in suitable thicknesses for the opening and risk level, commonly 11–18mm. OSB and plywood are both strong and reliable; we select based on availability, exposure and insurer expectations. All boards are fixed with anti-tamper fixings so they can’t be removed easily from outside.

Is the securing method non-destructive?

Wherever possible, yes. Our non-destructive securing methods avoid further damage. We aim to fix into existing frames or use internal bracing where feasible. Exceptions include severe structural damage or missing frames, where safe securing may require alternative fixings. We’ll explain options before we proceed.

Can you board up a smashed shop window after hours?

Absolutely. We regularly handle out-of-hours shopfront incidents, including large plate glass, roller shutters and glazed doors. We can coordinate safe access and provide simple RAMS (risk assessment and method statement) where needed. Learn more on our shopfront boarding in South West London page.

Do you install temporary steel doors or security screens?

Yes, when properties need medium-term security or when frames are compromised, we can fit temporary steel doors and steel security screens (Sitex-style). These are typically used for vacant properties or after major damage. See options on our vacant property security page.

How much does boarding up cost?

We don’t publish fixed prices because every job varies. Costs depend on the number and size of openings, height/access (ladders or towers), material choice and thickness, type of fixings, and whether it’s out-of-hours. Steel doors or security screens are additional. For a breakdown of cost factors, visit boarding up prices.

Can you help with insurance claims?

Yes. We provide insurance-ready paperwork: time-stamped photos of damage and completed work, an itemised invoice, and a brief statement of works. Keep any police reference number you’re given. We’re not loss adjusters or legal advisors, but we make the paperwork straightforward. Read more about our insurance support for boarding up.

Will you clean up broken glass and make the area safe?

Yes. Safety comes first. We clear accessible glass shards and debris and will cordon off unsafe areas if needed. Please keep children and pets away until we’ve finished.

Can you coordinate with glaziers for replacement glass?

Yes. We can offer a “board and glaze” approach with our trusted glazing partners or leave your property boarded and secure for your chosen glazier to replace the glass later. Our fixings are designed for easy removal from inside when it’s time to reglaze.

Do you cover my area in South West London?

We cover all SW postcodes, including areas like Battersea (SW11), Clapham (SW4), Putney (SW15), Wandsworth (SW18), Wimbledon (SW19/20), Fulham (SW6), Brixton (SW2) and Knightsbridge (SW1X). Explore the neighbourhoods we serve via areas we cover.

What happens when you arrive?

  • We assess the damage and risks.
  • We agree the securing method with you.
  • We cut boards to size and install with anti-tamper fixings.
  • Where needed, we fit temporary steel doors or additional screening.
  • We tidy the site and provide photos and paperwork.

For service specifics, see window boarding in South West London and door boarding up.

Do you work with landlords, estate agents and facilities managers?

Yes. We regularly support property managers, landlords and commercial operators—including out-of-hours boarding and keysafe coordination. Our team is fully insured, and technicians are DBS-checked. Learn about our commercial boarding up.

Is boarding up covered by insurance?

Often, yes—especially following burglary, vandalism, storm or accidental damage. Policies differ, so check your insurer or broker. We provide everything you need for a claim. See insurance support for details.

How quickly can you get here?

We dispatch promptly 24/7 across SW postcodes. Travel time varies with traffic and your exact location. To keep things realistic, we don’t promise fixed ETAs, but we will keep you updated and advise on immediate safety steps until we arrive.

Can you secure properties after a break-in?

Yes. We stabilise doors and frames, board windows, and can fit a temporary steel door if the door set is beyond repair. We also take photos for insurers. See our guide to post-burglary boarding up.

What if my window is smashed late at night—who do I call?

Call us any time on 020 4538 6452. We provide out-of-hours boarding up and can coordinate with an emergency glazier if required. Our 24/7 boarding up service covers all of South West London.

Can you board roofs or skylights after storm damage?

Yes. We offer roof & skylight boarding and temporary weatherproofing. We’ll liaise with roofers if needed and can return for follow-up securing after the initial make-safe.

Do you handle storm, fire or flood damage?

Will boarding damage my frames?

We work non-destructively wherever possible. If frames are intact, we aim to use existing structure or internal bracing. If the frame is split or missing, minimal additional fixings may be required for safety. We’ll always discuss options before we proceed.

Do you remove boards when repairs are complete?

Yes. On request, we can revisit to remove boards and, if needed, refit glazing with a partner or provide access for your chosen contractors. Removal is typically quick and tidy.

Can you secure a vacant or void property for longer periods?

Yes. For medium-term security, we recommend steel security screens and temporary steel doors with anti-tamper fixings. This solution balances deterrence and controlled access. Learn more about vacant property boarding in South West London.

Are your technicians vetted and insured?

Yes. We are fully covered by public liability insurance, and our technicians are DBS-checked. We also work to tidy, respectful standards in homes and businesses.

Do you dispose of broken glass?

We clear accessible broken glass and debris created by our work. If there’s a large volume of waste from an incident, we can advise on disposal options or coordinate additional services as needed.

What should I do before you arrive?

  • Keep people and pets away from broken glass.
  • If there’s a suspected break-in, avoid touching anything until the police have attended.
  • If water or electrics are involved, turn off power in the affected area if safe to do so.
  • Have any police reference number to hand for your insurer.

Can you provide a written quote before attending?

For planned or non-urgent works, yes—contact us for a free, no-obligation quote. For emergencies, we’ll confirm a call-out and explain cost factors clearly. See boarding up prices or contact our South West London team.

Do you cover internal glazing and doors?

We primarily secure external openings, but we can help make internal areas safe and advise on next steps. Tell us the details when you call.

Will the boards keep the weather out?

Yes. Correctly fitted boards provide a solid weather barrier. In severe exposure, we may add membranes or additional sealing and recommend prompt follow-up repairs.

Can you work around roller shutters?

Yes. We can coordinate with shutters and roller doors, securing behind or around them depending on damage and access. This is common on high streets and retail parks.

How do you fix boards without damaging tile or stone façades?

Where façades are sensitive, we assess alternative fixing points, use internal bracing, or fit temporary steel doors/screens that avoid vulnerable finishes—always explaining the method before we start.

Will boarding affect my alarm or CCTV?

We’ll work with you or your security provider to maintain alarm and CCTV function where possible, including leaving sensors unobstructed or repositioned temporarily.

Do you need someone on site?

It helps, but we can attend with authorised access arrangements, such as meeting a neighbour, keyholder or agent. For managed properties, we can coordinate with facilities or security teams.

Can you provide risk assessments and method statements (RAMS)?

Yes. For commercial or site-managed premises, we can supply concise RAMS and proof of insurance on request.

What’s the difference between plywood and OSB for boarding?

Both are strong, structural sheet materials. Plywood has cross-laminated veneers; OSB uses oriented strands. In practice, the choice depends on availability, exposure and insurer preferences. We’ll pick a suitable thickness (typically 11–18mm) for security and weather resistance.

How soon should I arrange permanent repairs?

As soon as practical. Boarding is a temporary measure. We can coordinate with glaziers, carpenters or roofers and can return to remove boards when repairs are ready.

Do you offer temporary fencing?

Where site safety requires it—after major impact or fire—we can arrange temporary perimeter measures. Ask about availability when you call.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept common payment methods and provide itemised invoices suitable for insurers. If your company requires PO numbers or specific billing details, let us know in advance.

Can you help if I’m locked out after damage?

Yes. If a door is unsafe or jammed after a break-in, we can make-safe and fit a temporary secure door. For full locksmith services, we can coordinate with trusted partners.

What if I’m not sure what I need?

Call us and describe what happened. We’ll advise on immediate safety and the simplest way to secure your property. You can also browse our situations we cover to match your scenario.

Situations we frequently handle

  • Post-burglary securing and frame stabilisation
  • Vandalism and smashed shop windows
  • Storm damage to windows, doors, roofs and skylights
  • Fire and flood make-safe securing
  • Accidental impacts and glazing failures

Explore: post-burglary boarding up, vandalism repair, and storm damage boarding.

Need urgent help?

If you’re facing a broken window, kicked-in door or smashed shopfront, we’re here 24/7 across South West London. We’ll secure your property quickly, neatly and with insurer-ready paperwork.

Need help now? Call 020 4538 6452 or Email us.

Helpful links