52% of Multi-family Property Managers Say Crime Went Up in 2024

In Cloudastructure’s annual Multi-family Crime Poll for 2024, more than half of respondents said crime on their properties was either up, or up significantly (more than 15%) over the previous year.

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Only 16% said it was down or down significantly. Approximately one third said their crime problems were similar to the level of crime they experienced in 2023. 

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Car Break-ins in Parking Garages Remain Biggest issue

A striking 60% of respondents identified car break-ins and car theft as their top concern, highlighting the ongoing struggle multifamily property managers face in securing parking areas. This issue is well-documented, with the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reporting that a significant portion of vehicle thefts and break-ins occur in residential parking lots, including multifamily complexes.

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But in a surprising twist over last year's survey, trespassing was the second most cited issue. A full 40% of respondents identified trespassers as their top safety concern, underscoring the challenges property managers face in maintaining secure and exclusive environments for their residents. Trespassing not only creates safety concerns but also contributes to secondary issues like vandalism, illegal dumping, and loitering, which degrade property value and resident satisfaction. A 2023 study by the National Apartment Association found that 70% of property managers reported frequent unauthorized access incidents, especially in amenity spaces and parking areas. 

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Urban or Suburban?

In another twist on the previous year’s MFCP, 60% of respondents reported experiencing more crime at their suburban properties than at urban apartment complexes, revealing an unexpected shift in crime trends. Suburban areas, often perceived as safer, are increasingly targeted by criminals due to factors like less visibility, slower police response times, and fewer security measures compared to urban environments. 

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Information is Power

The 2024 Multi-Family Crime Poll highlights the pressing security challenges facing multifamily property management and ownership, from rising crime rates to the persistent issues of car theft, trespassing, and suburban vulnerabilities. These insights serve as a powerful reminder that knowledge is a critical asset in combating crime. By understanding the specific threats properties face, decision-makers can implement targeted solutions to enhance safety, protect assets, and foster resident satisfaction. 

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In 2025, the best security solutions are proactive. Modern tools like AI surveillance, remote guarding software, and camera monitoring empower property managers to stay ahead of crime trends and make data-driven decisions to safeguard their communities against a wide variety of familiar safety issues. Equipped with the right knowledge and proactive strategies, multifamily operators can turn these challenges into opportunities for improved security and peace of mind for their residents.

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