One of the worst things that can happen to property owners in Filer is vandalism. In fact, vandals target roughly 15% of American homes each year. Vandalism such as graffiti and smashed mailboxes can cause expensive damage to a rental home. It also violates a tenant’s sense of security and community spirit. Your property values can also be affected. For these reasons, preventing vandalism should be a top priority for landlords and property owners alike.
Install Adequate Lighting
There are no fail-proof ways to deter vandalism, but there are some things that you can do to minimize the likelihood of vandalism. One of these ways is to install and maintain adequate exterior lighting. Lights and vandalism do not mix; vandals prefer dark spaces as they want their dirty work unseen. Motion sensor lights are predominantly effective and can be an energy-efficient option that tenants will appreciate.
Maintain or Install Fences
Discourage vandals by making sure your fences are durable and equipped with a secure gate that locks. Vandals want to aim for those easy targets; if they need to climb over a fence or break a locked gate, then they will think twice before entering your property.
Landscaping
As a natural deterrent, one effective way is by having bushes or shrubs with rough bark, thorns, or pointy leaves in the perimeter of the property. The added greenery will enhance the look of your property while at the same time giving a painful challenge to any unwanted visitors attempting to get overly close to the home.
Window Coverings
As unusual as it may seem, but quality window coverings can thwart the vandals, too. Vandalism is a crime of opportunity; they will typically only strike if they think nobody is home. Covering your windows with blinds or drapes will raise uncertainties about whether or not someone is home. Keeping a light or two on at all times does so as well. These simple changes might persuade someone to look for another, easier target.
Address Damage Immediately
If vandals do strike, it’s vital to clean up the mess as soon as possible. These sorts of ne’er-do-wells enjoyed having their handiwork scene and fussed over. If you leave their damage as it is, they might return and make an even bigger, “better” mess. By painting over graffiti, repairing broken glass, and addressing any further damage right away, you actively discourage any vandals from coming back.
By following these simple guidelines, you can keep your Filer rental homes from becoming an easy target for vandals. At Real Property Management Magic Valley, we offer full-service property management, including monitoring your properties regularly and arranging repairs and maintenance should anything go wrong. If you would like more information on how to protect your home, please contact us online or by 208-734-4001 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.
