HOA safety issues have become a pressing concern for many association boards. With the rise in security problems, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents is increasingly challenging for associations. 

This blog post takes a proactive stance, exploring some of community associations’ most common security issues. We also provide potential solutions, showing you how to address these concerns effectively. 

Why is safety so important for your HOA? 

Crime rates in the USA are reaching alarming levels, making it harder for boards to ensure the security of their communities. The FBI reported 1,954.4 property crimes per 100,000 people, compared with 380.7 violent crimes per 100,000 people. By far, the most common form of property crime in 2022 was larceny/theft, followed by motor vehicle theft and burglary.

However, even with high numbers, according to the Pew Research Center, Americans tend to believe that the crime rate only rises in the country rather than in their area. The graphic below shows this data over the years. 

One key factor that attracts people to live in an HOA is the sense of security it provides. This expectation raises the bar for board members, requiring them to maintain a high safety level in the living area.

Addressing safety issues as a high priority is crucial for ensuring the well-being of HOA residents. When the board demonstrates a commitment to the association’s safety, it fosters trust and confidence among the residents. 

However, it can be challenging for the board to identify threats to HOA security. Let’s see the most common causes of safety issues and their possible solutions.

1.Inadequate Lighting

Poor lighting in common areas, parking lots, and pathways can increase the HOA’s vulnerability. Inadequate lighting can also affect the effectiveness of security cameras and raise the risk of accidents and criminal activity.

The first step to solving this problem is recognizing its existence. With the Neigbrs software, you can use the Service Requests feature to give residents a tool to inform you quickly when something isn’t working.

Another essential step is to prepare your budget for emergencies. Some lighting issues, such as changing lamps, are easy to solve. However, others, like electrical problems, can be complex and costly.

Therefore, it is necessary to conduct regular inspections to identify problems as soon as possible. Additionally, ensure your budget accounts for these potential expenses. Read ‘7 Tips for Your HOA Budget Preparation‘ to learn more.

2.Dangerous neighborhood

Sometimes, the crime rate in a specific area can unexpectedly increase due to various factors and turn into a HOA safety issue. Many of these incidents, such as robberies around the community, may be beyond the board’s immediate control.

Despite this, the board can take proactive action to alert residents. Cultivating relationships with neighboring communities, including those outside HOAs, facilitates sharing security updates and enhances safety awareness.

Other methods to address HOA safety issues include:

• Security Cameras: You can install them in common areas and encourage residents to do so as well. Learn more about HOA restrictions on security cameras below.

• Patrol Committee: It can also be helpful to organize volunteer shifts among residents to patrol the community during high-risk hours. 

3.Improper care of green areas

Many plants can grow tall and unruly quickly, decreasing property value and creating hiding spots for potential criminals. To address these issues, it’s important to manage common areas effectively and ensure residents adhere to landscape rules.

4. Active Shooting

Mass shootings are becoming more common in the US, posing a severe threat to lives and presenting challenges in response. Despite the difficulty, there are proactive steps you can take to prepare for such scenarios:

• Establish a quick and reliable communication channel for you and your residents.
• Utilize security cameras to enhance monitoring capabilities.

Develop and share an emergency plan with your community.

In addition, you can watch this webinar presented by Brian Lancaster, Former SWAT Operator and Vice President of National Accounts for SR&R. Educating yourself with insights from specialists is the most effective prevention method. Watch it below:

Bonus tip

The key tip to guarantee that HOA safety issues will be dealt with in the best way is to listen to your residents. Addressing their concerns improves your relationship with them and makes them feel more engaged in the association.

Even better, you can gather valuable suggestions from them. Implement these ideas by conducting online surveys or discussing them at general meetings.

Wrapping up on HOA safety issues

Security is a primary factor influencing residents’ choice to live in an HOA. The board must prioritize security to foster a healthy community environment.

One effective way to understand and address your community’s most pressing needs is to listen to their opinions, and you can do this through surveys. Click below to get our Free HOA Survey Template, which will save you time and streamline your processes.