To be a keyholder for domestic premises you must be on the telephone and able to attend the premises within 20 minutes of receiving the call-out.

You must be familiar with the premises and have knowledge of vehicles owned by the occupier.

On attendance at premises:

• Make sure someone knows where you are
• Always approach from the front
• Avoid dark areas
• Give yourself plenty of room when checking the property (do not keep too close to the building line)
• Ideally two people should attend
• If you have a mobile phone, take it with you
• Carry a torch with you
• If there are any strange vehicles on the driveway or any unusual lights on, DO NOT APPROACH - RING THE POLICE ON 999.

If, on checking the premises, you discover that they are insecure, DO NOT GO INSIDE - CALL THE POLICE ON 999. DO NOT TOUCH THE DOORS OR WINDOWS.

If the property appears to be in order then enter and check. Re-set the alarm (you will need the code), or call the engineer depending upon circumstances agreed with the householder.

On leaving the premises make sure they are secure and inform the police if you were contacted by them to attend.

Having volunteered as a keyholder you need to know the whereabouts of the owner should they need to be contacted. If the property has been broken into or damaged, it will be your responsibility on behalf of the owner for any temporary repairs.