Protecting your investment properties from vandalism is imperative. Though you should take appropriate measures, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility that, despite your utmost efforts, your property may still be vulnerable. With a number of homes targeted by vandals each year, it’s so important to have a plan to address any potential incidents at your rental properties.
When beset with vandalism, it’s common to feel violated and overwhelmed as you work with the authorities and your insurance company to repair your rental property while comforting your frustrated tenant. Having said that, providing yourself knowledge on responding to vandalism can help you retrieve control and make the recovery process more effortless.
Create a detailed report for insurance and legal purposes
If your property is vandalized, it’s necessary to contact the local authorities and properly file a police report. Notwithstanding your tenants may report the incident, as the property owner, you must communicate with the investigating police officers and warrant that all property damage is properly documented in an official report.
Clear and detailed documentation of property damage is integral. Get a picture of every incident of vandalism, as insurance companies, in general, require these records. If you can’t visit the property, look into delegating this task to your tenant or property management company.
Address tenant concerns and maintain trust
If the vandalism is not caused by your renters or their guests, you are looking after repairs. It’s imperative to involve your insurance company when the damage takes place. Give it importance that your insurance policy covers vandalism before it pops up. You should cover the repair costs yourself if it doesn’t.
Vandalism can unavoidably affect tenants, generating physical damage to their homes and emotional distress. Tenants may feel fear and anxiety as their sense of security is weakened. It is beneficial to provide reassurance to tenants and evidently exhibit efforts to restore the rental property and ensure their safety.
Enhance property security with lighting and alarms
As a rental property owner, it is crucial to emphasize safety. One of the best means to prevent vandalism and establish the safety of your property is to weigh installing a comprehensive security system that your tenants can utilize.
Moreover, providing bright, motion-activated outdoor lighting to illuminate the surroundings and fortifying all entry points with sound deadbolts can greatly improve the rental property’s overall safety and security measures.
At Real Property Management Greater Madison Metro, one of our top priorities is keeping your tenant and rental property safe in Cottage Grove and nearby. We can work on the documentation and recovery method for you and make sure that your property is repaired in an unlucky event. Want to understand more? contact us online or call us at 608-310-1290 for details.
Originally Published on December 14, 2018
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