If this has happened at your parking garage, know you're not alone. Car break-ins are spiking across the country. According to the Council on Criminal Justice, we're experiencing a 30% increase in car thefts and break-ins.

As a property manager or landlord, dealing with situations like car break-ins can be challenging. It's essential to communicate effectively with your tenants to provide guidance, support, and reassurance during such incidents. Here's what you might want to convey to your tenants after a car break-in occurs.

Acknowledge the Incident

Start by acknowledging the situation and showing empathy towards affected tenants. Begin any communication with a message that acknowledges the incident and expresses concern for those impacted. This sets a supportive tone from the outset.

"Dear Tenants,

We regret to inform you that there have been recent car break-ins in our parking area. We understand this can be distressing and inconvenient for those affected, and we want to assure you that we are taking steps to address the situation promptly."

Provide Safety Tips

Offer practical advice on how tenants can protect themselves and their belongings in the future. Share security tips such as:

• Park in well-lit areas
• Remove all valuables from the vehicle
• Use anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks or alarms
• Report any suspicious activity to building management or local authorities
• Never leave keys inside the car unattended.

"To enhance your safety and reduce the risk of future incidents, we recommend parking in well-lit areas and avoiding leaving valuables visible in your vehicles. If you notice any suspicious activity around the property, please do not hesitate to contact us."

Validation from a subject matter expert always helps, so if your tenants are more likely to take these suggestions from law enforcement, invite a local crime prevention officer to come speak.

Offer Assistance

Let tenants know that you're available to assist them in dealing with the aftermath of the break-in. This could include:

• Providing information on filing police reports
• Recommending reputable auto repair services
• Offering testimony for insurance claims if necessary

Such actions can involve:

"If your vehicle was affected, please feel free to reach out to us for guidance on filing police reports or connecting with trusted repair services. We're here to assist you through this process."

Reinforce Security Measures

Car break-ins are a pervasive problem – you can get hit multiple times. Take action:

• Fix any broken gates/locks
• Change the complex's access codes
• Install motion lights
• Ensure your cameras are operational
• Upgrade to AI Surveillance & Remote Guarding

Notify your tenants of new security measures while you simultaneously keep a record of all security health checks and incidents.

Encourage Open Communication

Message all company efforts towards community safety and encourage your tenants to do the same. Invite them to report any security concerns promptly. Maintain open lines of communication to address their questions or suggestions regarding safety improvements.

Always remember that theft usually causes tremendous stress and sometimes even trauma for victims. Your efforts to reinforce your tenants' sense of safety and community will be noted and appreciated.

CTA: Want to learn more about Car Break-ins and Landlord liability? Reach out and I would be happy to connect you!