Graffiti can affect how safe and welcoming a neighbourhood feels. While some see it as “street art,” in most cases graffiti on housing association properties is considered vandalism. It can damage buildings, lower property values, and make shared spaces feel neglected. Tenants play an important role in helping their landlord keep communities clean, safe, and graffiti-free.
Impacts of graffiti
- Appearance: graffiti makes buildings and estates look uncared for.
- Costs: removing graffiti uses housing association and service charge funds that could instead be spent on repairs and improvements.
- Safety: areas with graffiti are sometimes linked to anti-social behaviour.
Landlord’s responsibilities
Your landlord is responsible for:
- Removing graffiti from homes, communal areas, and shared spaces.
- Tackling offensive or abusive graffiti urgently.
- Working with the local Council and Metropolitan Police to discourage vandalism.
- Improve lighting, security, and design to prevent repeat incidents.
What tenants can do to help
Tenants are not expected to remove graffiti themselves, but you can help by:
- Reporting quickly: tell SHA if you see graffiti on your building or in shared spaces.
- Noticing patterns: if the same area is being targeted, let us know so preventative steps can be taken.
- Looking out for your community: if you witness vandalism, report it safely to SHA, the Council, or local police.
- Keeping areas clean: well-maintained spaces are less likely to attract graffiti.
Prevention tips for residents
- Encourage neighbours to report issues quickly.
- Support community projects such as murals or youth activities that provide positive outlets for creativity.
- Keep communal areas tidy and well-lit to deter vandalism.
Remember
- Graffiti removal is the landlord’s duty, but tenants’ reports are essential.
Acting quickly helps reduce repeat vandalism. - Everyone has a role in keeping neighbourhoods clean, safe, and welcoming.
Seen any graffiti lately? Report it to your housing officer right away. Together we can build a safer, cleaner community.
