Vandalism of residential property is a persistent headache for property owners, with vandals targeting roughly 15% of American homes yearly. This crime often results in expensive damage to a rental home, such as shattered windows or defaced walls, and contributes to the detriment of property values in the area. For these reasons, preventing vandalism is a top priority for landlords and property owners who aim to shield their investments. Vandals thrive on opportunity, but with the right precautions, you can protect your rental and keep it from becoming a target for vandals.
Simple Safety Measures for Rental Properties
- Motion sensor lights. Vandals prefer darkness to mask their actions. Motion sensor lights are energy-efficient options that illuminate your property, making it less inviting and helping to prevent vandalism at your rental property.
- Locking gate with your fence. A sturdy locked gate is a strong deterrent. By installing a locking gate with your fence, you make it tougher for vandals to access the property, deterring them from the yard and helping to prevent vandalism at your rental property.
- Added greenery. Planting bushes with thorns or prickly leaves adds an attractive layer of defense. This added greenery not only enhances your property’s look but also repels unwanted visitors trying to approach the home.
- Blinds or drapes. Vandals often strike when they think nobody is home. Using blinds or drapes to cover windows, especially with a light or two is left on, creates uncertainty about occupancy, reducing the chance your home becomes a target for vandals.
When Vandalism does occur, it’s important to clean up the mess as soon as possible. Swiftly painting over graffiti and addressing any further damage—like broken fixtures—shows vandals your property isn’t an easy mark, helping to discourage a vandal from returning and prevent your rental home from further harm.
These practical steps can prevent your rental home from becoming a target for vandals and safeguard it against Vandalism of residential property. At Real Property Management New York Gold, we provide full-service property management, including regular checks on properties in Flushing repairs and maintenance to tackle issues like vandalism quickly. To learn more about preventing vandalism, contact us online or call 347-905-5770 today.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.