Vandalism, such as broken windows, damaged doors, graffiti, or destruction of communal facilities harms not just the property but the whole community. It can create feelings of neglect, increase repair costs, and affect everyone’s sense of safety. Housing associations like SHA, local Councils and residents have important roles in tackling and preventing vandalism.
Impacts of Vandalism
- Costly repairs: Mmney spent on fixing damage could be used for improvements and services.
- Safety risks: broken doors, windows, or lighting can make buildings unsafe.
Community impact: vandalised areas may attract anti-social behaviour.
Duties of the landlord
Housing associations like SHA have a duty to:
- Keep homes and communal areas safe, secure, and in good repair.
- Repair vandalism damage within reasonable timescales, with urgent attention given to safety risks.
- Report serious vandalism or criminal damage to the Metropolitan Police.
- Work with the local council, police, and residents to discourage anti-social behaviour.
- Improve security, such as installing additional CCTV, better lighting, put in anti-social behaviour measures, or secure entry systems where needed.
Resident responsibilities
While housing associations like SHA must repair damage, residents also play a key role in preventing and addressing vandalism:
- Report vandalism quickly: tell your landlord about any damage as soon as you notice it.
- Inform the Metropolitan Police: For criminal acts or anti-social behaviour, contact the police.
- Look after communal areas: treat shared spaces like lifts, stairwells, and gardens with respect.
- Be a good neighbour: encourage positive use of communal spaces and discourage anti-social behaviour.
- Stay safe: Never confront vandals directly – report them instead.
Working together
Preventing vandalism is a shared responsibility. When housing associations like SHA and residents act together:
- Repairs are dealt with faster.
- Neighbourhoods feel safer and more welcoming.
- Everyone benefits from well-maintained homes and shared spaces.
Remember
- Vandalism is a crime and should be reported.
- Your landlord must repair the damage and improve safety.
- Residents’ vigilance and quick reporting are essential to protect the community.
See any vandalism recently? Report it to the SHA and the police. Together, we can keep our homes and neighbourhoods safe.
