Protecting against vandalism
Vandalism is where property is intentionally damaged or destroyed and can lead to theft or looting without taking steps to prevent it.
Vandalism remains a persistent issue for UK businesses, with Home Office data indicating almost 8% of commercial premises fall victim to criminal damage each year.
Tips to protect against vandalism
Reinforce doors and windows
- Install security roller shutters – roller shutters cover the windows and doors when your premises is closed to help prevent forced entry.
- Fit external security grilles – fixed grilles can protect vulnerable side or rear windows, while retractable options allow you to open them during trade hours.
- Upgrade to polycarbonate or acrylic sheeting – to prevent the glass from shattering into pieces upon impact.
- Use to multi-point locking systems on doors – replace standard deadbolts with multi-point locks that secure the door into the frame at three or more separate points.
- Fit steel-latch guard plates – to cover the exposed gap between the door and the frame to prevent vandals from jamming crowbars or screwdrivers into the lock mechanism.
Install lighting and CCTV
- Use motion-sensor floodlights in dark areas like loading bays and car parks, which only activate at full brightness when movement is detected.
- Position CCTV cameras at least 2.5 to 3 metres above the ground to try and put it out of reach and prevent tampering.
- CCTV should cover entry points and vulnerable blind spots, ensuring high-definition coverage that can capture facial details.
- Bright, even lighting ensures CCTV cameras can capture clear facial features, distinct clothing marks, tattoos, and getaway vehicles.
- Modern smart cameras can trigger instant smartphone alerts the moment a vandal attempts to spray-paint, redirect, or smash a camera lens.
Protect external fixtures
- Ensure all wheelie bins and outdoor furniture are locked away, as vandals can use them to climb onto your roof or damage property.
- Secure any bins, ladders, and outdoor furniture so they cannot be used to break windows or climb roofs.
- Consider treating any signs or metal enclosures with a hydrophobic, non-stick clear coating to stop spray paint or permanent markers from bonding to the surface.