The connection between home security and neighborhood vandalism may not seem obvious at first, but preventing, reducing, and recovering from vandalism are critically important to maintaining low rates of criminal activity around your home, which has a direct impact on your risk of burglaries or home invasions as well as your property value.

Vandalized neighborhoods can deter businesses from investing or operating in the area, leading to economic decline. By promptly addressing vandlism, the neighborhood demonstrates its commitment to creating a welcoming environment for businesses and economic growth. Keeping the neighborhood clean and free of signs of vandalism also fosters a sense of pride and ownership among residents. It creates a positive environment where people feel safer and more connected to their community.

Here are a few of the most common forms of vandalism seen in a residential neighborhood:

• • Tagging or painting (graffiti) on walls, fences, buildings, or other surfaces with unauthorized markings or symbols.
  • Deliberately breaking windows or other glass surfaces, which not only causes property damage but also fosters a sense of neglect and disorder in the neighborhood.
  • Various acts of physical property damage, such as vandalism to cars, mailboxes, street signs, or landscaping.
  • Dumping litter, trash, or debris in public areas, vacant lots, or parks, which not only creates an eyesore but also poses environmental and health hazards.