Methods for Securing Vacant Property
When buildings are vacated and left empty for any length of time, the owners of the buildings typically look for ways to secure the vacant property. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, the buildings still often get broken into, vandalized, or damaged. Common methods of securing vacancies, despite their popularity may not be the most effective ways of securing properties. Let’s learn more about the deficiencies of common methods for vacant property security, as well as better alternatives.
Source: investingnownetwork.com
Plywood Board-Ups
Plywood board-up for vacant housing is very common, but it comes with the issue that it is unsightly and is a very clear indication that no one lives in the home or occupies the building. Because boarded up buildings look so obviously abandoned, they easily become targets for criminals, squatters, and vandals. They can also a sign of a neighborhood in decline, as there are often multiple buildings in a given area with plywood board-ups.
Surveillance Cameras
Surveillance cameras are another popular method for protecting vacant properties and lots, but they have their own problems as well. For instance, people can simply disguise themselves if they plan on committing crimes such as vandalism, or they could simply disable the cameras altogether, which means you will either have to repair or replace them, in addition to taking care of any damage that people cause while the cameras are not watching.
Guard Dogs or Security Guards
Guard dogs and security guards, though less common than boarding up windows and doors and installing surveillance cameras, are another popular method of protecting property, although, again, it comes with risks. Not only is employing security guards and guard dogs more expensive as it requires hands-on manpower, but it involves putting someone’s life at risk, particularly if the dog or guard encounters a criminal who didn’t anticipate getting caught.
Finding a Better Alternative
A better alternative to the three aforementioned methods of securing a building that no one lives in and is vacant is using steel door guards and a window guard system. They are stronger, more durable and more attractive than boarding up with plywood, yet are highly effective at keeping intruders out of the building. For more information about how steel guards for vacant buildings can help you, contact DAWGS today.
