The Hidden Perils of Parking: Uncovering Security Flaws in Multifamily Residential Communities

Securing parking areas has emerged as an important issue for multifamily housing communities in recent years, and navigating the realm of resident and guest vehicle parking in the multifamily industry can become a massive headache. With parking facilities containing many personal vehicles, community parking facilities like large lots or garages can be susceptible to unauthorized access and criminal activity. As more families make their homes in multifamily buildings, property managers are seeking solutions to make parking lots and garages safer, especially as safe and secure parking isn’t simply regarded as a convenience, but a highly coveted community amenity.  

The safety and security of multifamily residential parking facilities is no small matter. With thoughtful design, technology enhancements, and community engagement, residential property managers and owners can effectively address parking risks. Safe parking allows families to feel at ease coming and going from their homes. 

Parking garages, with their secluded corners and various levels, often become hotspots for criminal activities. They stand as the third most common venue for violent crimes, following personal residences and alleys or sidewalks, with a staggering number of 133,989 victims reportedly attacked by strangers​. The dark alleys and multiple hiding spots in parking garages provide a conducive environment for criminal elements to thrive. 

Car thefts represent a significant portion of crimes reported in parking areas, with about 22% of all car thefts occurring in parking lots. Alarmingly, a car is reportedly stolen from a parking lot every 23 seconds​​. The prevalence of these crimes can pose a serious concern for both vehicle owners and property managers. 

This data underscores the imperative for enhanced security measures in parking facilities. Deploying proactive surveillance systems, ensuring adequate lighting, and fostering a vigilant community are pivotal steps towards curbing the menace of criminal activities in parking garages.  

Take a look at the video below to see how live video monitoring can be a critical component in effectively securing parking facilities and intervening in potential criminal and other unwanted activities.  

Trespasser Tampered with the Gate to Enter the Parking Garage and Prowl Vehicles 

In the wee hours of the morning, Stealth security professionals spotted an individual manually opening the gate at a secure parking garage. A closer look revealed it was a tenant taking out the trash, however, while reviewing the incident a second individual was observed opening the gate manually and accessing multiple vehicles. Local police dispatch was immediately contacted, and officers were observed taking the suspect into custody at approximately 4:23 a.m.

Person Under the Influence was Seen Stumbling Around Between Parked Cars

Around 2:30 in the morning, Stealth monitoring operators noticed an individual wandering between vehicles in an apartment parking facility. A closer review led observing security pros to conclude that the individual was under the influence. Audible alarms were activated, and local police dispatch contacted. Responding officers arrived onsite quickly and were observed taking the individual into custody.

We Called Police on This Guy Who was Looking for Loot to Fill His Bag

Around 3:15 a.m., an individual was observed by Stealth security professionals accessing multiple vehicles at a California multifamily residential community. Audible alarms were activated, and local police dispatchers contacted, as well as the onsite security officer. Responding law enforcement was seen making contact with the suspect and taking them into custody.

Georgia Intruder Ambles Around a Parking Garage Accessing Vehicles

In Georgia, Stealth security professionals caught sight of a suspicious individual meandering through the parking garage of a multifamily community at approximately 2:25 a.m. The suspect proceeded to access multiple vehicles, spurring monitoring operators to contact both the onsite security guard and local police dispatch. Responding officers were observed making contact with the suspect and taking them into custody.

Police Arrived in Time to Catch our Curious Suspect Rummaging Through the Trunk of a Car

Around 3:30 a.m., Stealth’s team of monitoring operators noticed an individual weaving between vehicles before accessing the trunk of a vehicle and rummaging through it. Local police dispatch was immediately contacted due to the nature of the activity being observed. Responding officers arrived quickly and were seen on camera making contact with the suspect, who was taken into custody.  

Enhancing Community Safety with Proactive Security  

All of these examples demonstrate that installing security cameras with live video monitoring in parking areas provides enhanced security and acts as a deterrent to potential criminals.  

Security guards may provide an important human presence, but a well-designed system of technology solutions can bolster protection for your multifamily housing community. With the right tools, you can increase visibility across your property, enable rapid response, and give residents greater peace of mind. 

Strategically placed security cameras with cutting-edge analytics provide effective monitoring of parking areas, amenities, and common spaces. Smart camera systems detect suspicious behaviors and send instant alerts to our highly trained team. With broad visibility, we can proactively watch for unwanted visitors and activity on the premises. Our security professionals are experts in assessing situations to determine the appropriate response, from sounding on-site audible warnings to contacting police.  

Quick action is vital. Our live video feeds and up-to-the-minute details provide police dispatchers with real-time, accurate information to elevate response priority when needed.  

Proactive and state-of-the-art security solutions help reduce risks while building a greater sense of security among residents. We’re committed to protecting what matters most – your property and the people who call it home. Contact us to learn more about a customized solution to meet your community’s unique needs at a savings of up to 60% when compared to traditional measures.  

Texas Private Security License Number: B14187
California Alarm Operator License Number: ACO7876
Florida Alarm System Contractor I License Number: EF20001598
Tennessee Alarm Contracting Company License Number: 2294
Virginia Private Security Services Business License Number: 11-19499
Alabama Electronic Security License # 002116
Canada TSBC License: LEL0200704