Vacant Property Is A Sitting Duck In This Economy

My primary areas of Managing Investment Properties have been Natomas, Land Park, Greenhaven, Pocket, Sacramento and Elk Grove.

Yes, burglary and theft is on the rise amongst vacant rental/investment properties.

In the last couple of weeks I have encountered several break ins of vacant investment properties. The criminals not only stripped the rental home of all metal/copper piping from the air conditioning condenser, but also took the the metal piping from the attic, both bathrooms and kitchen. And did I mention they also took the faucets and pluming from the vacant property as well.

Now I will say each fall and winter we encounter a spike in break ins for shelter or burglary/theft of vacant investment properties. However the increasing stress on our economy will undoubtedly bring about an unusually high amount of activity concerning theft/vandalism in vacant properties.

Here are a couple of suggestions to protect your investment property:

1. Install a burglar alarm, ideally one that is connected to 24 hr surveillance for the ultimate protection to your investment property.

2. Stage the property to appear occupied. Leave lights on, radio on and even partially decorate the exterior with Holiday themed items.

3. Visit the property regularly. Check the property for signs of tampering or break in.

4. If you have access to a secondary vehicle leave it parked in the driveway.

5. Keep the window coverings closed, always confirm the windows are closed and locked. Check the screens for tampering.

Burglary, theft and vandalism of vacant investment properties represent huge losses and will only worsen as times get harder. I have seen homes completely stripped down to sub floor and drywall. The costs are damaging not only to your insurance carrier but to you as well. While your home is in a state of repair, it will be difficult to rent or sell. Prospective tenants/buyers may feel uncomfortable and decide to pass out of fear.

Even worse, some thieves tend to actually come back while the repairs are in process. The thieves wait and watch looking for the next opportunity to take what is not theirs. We repair a portion of the house and either that evening or the next day we find the rreplacement items have already been stolen. The relentless tactics of such individuals make it very difficult to accomplish a final ready for move in status.

Be creative, protect your investment property. I welcome and encourage anyone else to share their ideas or methods of protecting property while vacant.

If you suspect someone is in the home or has broken in, do not enter alone, call the police department immediately and wait at a safe distance for help to arrive.