Graffiti and tagging are persistent challenges for landlords, especially in urban areas. Aside it being an eyesore, tagging can reduce your property’s value, disincentivize potential tenants and lead to expensive clean up. Although no property is ever immune from the problem, there are proactive strategies that can noticeably reduce the frequency of vandalism.
Today we’ll explore five effective methods to help landlords reduce tagging outside of their property.
One of the more practical solutions for landlords is the use of an anti-graffiti coating on frequently targeted areas. There are many different types of anti-graffiti coatings, though they all are similar in their application. This coating leaves behind a protective layer that prevents spray paint and markers from bonding with the wall. This results in graffiti being easier to remove, typically only using a power washer.
An additional benefit of anti-graffiti coatings is that it acts as a deterrent. Taggers generally are less likely to target the same property if their graffiti is washed off quickly. This method also lowers your long term maintenance costs, as repeat tagging doesn't lead to necessary repaints or permanent damage.
Landscaping can serve a number of roles, in this case, strategic landscaping can be used as an aesthetically pleasing method for preventing tagging. Planting dense foliage or thorny bushes along frequently targeted walls, a landlord can create a physical barrier making it difficult for vandals to reach your walls.
This method of deterring tagging serves two purposes. It discourages vandalism while improving your rental property’s curb appeal. While this method does also increase the workload for general maintenance, it's less likely that a shrub will be tagged instead of your outside walls.
While not specifically designed as a graffiti deterrent, having visually appealing and well lit spaces can be an effective strategy for deterring tagging. It's been shown that vandals are less likely to deface areas that are well lit. Artwork or other creative displays can serve as a deterrent as well, as taggers sometimes second guess vandalizing artwork. By incorporating decorative lighting and artistic elements, landlords can protect their rental property while also improving their curb appeal. This can not only reduce overall vandalism, it may also attract more tenants, improving your bottom line.
Proper security lighting is a great deterrent against tagging. Criminals are less likely to commit a crime when they’re brightly illuminated. Motion sensor lighting can detect a tagger, and expose them with a bright light. This sudden exposure makes it riskier for vandals to continue tagging, thus reducing the likelihood of graffiti.
Ideal locations for these lights include alleyways, backyards and any areas that are either difficult to see or are frequently targeted by taggers.
There are few deterrents as effective as security cameras with clear warning signs. Even the suggestion of potentially being recorded can make some taggers second guess themselves. Cameras also provide a layer of accountability as it increases the chances of identifying the tagger and prosecuting them. For the best results, combine security cameras with security lighting, this lets the vandal know that they’re being watched, and if caught there will be consequences.
Tagging is an expensive and frustrating problem for landlords, especially in more urban neighborhoods. However, by combining multiple methods, landlords can significantly reduce the probability of vandalism on their property. This not only helps your property maintain its value, it creates a
safer environment for your tenants. If you need help dealing with your tagging problem or you need help managing your Beach City rental property, we invite you to call us today at (562) 888-0247 or complete our
Owner Application online.
