Tips for Avoiding Vandalism and Protecting Your Rental Property

Vandalism of residential property poses a serious challenge for property owners, especially since vandals target roughly 15% of American homes yearly. This destructive behavior often results in expensive damage to a rental home and can lead to the detriment of property values. For this reason, preventing vandalism remains a top priority for landlords and property owners aiming to safeguard their investments. Vandals typically seek out properties that seem unprotected, but with a few strategic steps, you can reduce your rental’s vulnerability.

Simple Safety Measures for Rental Properties

• Motion sensor lights. Darkness is a vandal’s ally, making it easier for them to go unnoticed. Motion sensor lights, as energy-efficient options, activate upon detecting movement, lighting up your property and helping to prevent vandalism at your rental property by making it less appealing to vandals.
• Locking gate with your fence. A locking gate with your fence acts as a formidable barrier against intruders. A locked gate complicates access for vandals, often deterring them from the yard and lowering the chances of vandalism occurring.
• Added greenery. Planting thorny shrubs or prickly bushes around your property serves a dual purpose. This added greenery boosts your home’s visual appeal while acting as a natural shield to keep unwanted visitors at bay.
• Blinds or drapes. Vandals often strike homes they assume are empty. By using blinds or drapes to conceal the interior and ensuring a light or two is left on, you can create the impression of occupancy, making your property a less enticing target for vandals.

Conclusively, if vandals do strike, it’s important to clean up the mess as soon as possible. Swiftly painting over graffiti and addressing any further damage restores your property’s condition and shows that it’s actively maintained, which can discourage a vandal from coming back and prevent your rental home from being hit again.

Taking these practical steps can significantly lower the risk of vandalism and protect your rental investment. At Real Property Management Providence, our full-service property management offers comprehensive support, including oversight of properties in East Providence repairs and maintenance, to quickly address vandalism or other issues. For expert guidance on securing your rental property, contact us online or call 401-272-3300 today.