Vacant properties can quickly turn from “temporary” to “trouble.” For Housing Authorities (HAs), extended rehab or pre-demolition periods often leave units exposed to vandalism, theft, and costly damage, all of which can derail budgets and timelines.
The challenge isn’t new, but the stakes are higher than ever. Tight budgets, HUD compliance requirements, and pressure to keep projects moving mean Housing Authorities need solutions that work fast, protect investments, and reduce turnaround time.
The good news? Many HAs are finding smarter ways to stay ahead of trouble. Here’s how.
Why Vacant Units Pose a Bigger Risk Than You Think
Every day a property sits unsecured increases risk. Vacant units attract unwanted attention, from vandals looking for copper piping to squatters who can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Even plywood, the traditional go-to for securing windows and doors, often fails to deter break-ins and can create additional problems like moisture damage and curb appeal issues. The result? Rehab projects stall, budgets balloon, and Housing Authorities face compliance headaches.
Three Strategies Housing Authorities Are Using to Protect Vacant Properties
1. Secure Units Fast to Prevent Damage
Speed matters. The longer a unit remains unsecured, the greater the risk of theft, vandalism, and safety hazards. Housing Authorities using steel door and window guards are cutting turnaround time dramatically, and avoiding the headaches of plywood failures and repeated break-ins.
Unlike plywood, steel security systems are designed to withstand forced entry attempts. They’re installed quickly and removed just as easily when the property is ready for occupancy or demolition. This means fewer delays and less money spent on repairs.
2. Protect Budgets and Timelines
Damage repair costs can spiral quickly. A single break-in can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs, not to mention the time lost waiting for contractors and materials. By locking down vacant units before problems start, Housing Authorities are keeping rehab projects on track and preventing budget overruns.
One HA reported saving over $10,000 in repair costs simply by switching from plywood to steel guards. Multiply that across multiple units, and the savings are significant.
3. Stay Compliant Without Sacrificing Speed
HUD compliance matters, but it doesn’t have to slow you down. Solutions like DAWGS’ steel security systems meet HUD standards while delivering the durability and flexibility Housing Authorities need during long vacancy periods.
Compliance isn’t just about meeting regulations. It’s about ensuring properties remain safe and habitable throughout the rehab process. Steel security systems help HAs achieve both goals without compromise.
Real-World Results: How Housing Authorities Are Winning
Across the country, Housing Authorities are adopting proactive security strategies to protect vacant units. Here are a few examples:
Faster Turnaround: One HA reduced vacancy turnaround time by 30% after implementing steel security systems, allowing them to move families into safe housing sooner.
Lower Costs: Another HA reported a 40% reduction in damage-related expenses, freeing up funds for critical rehab work.
Improved Safety: By securing units with steel guards, HAs are reducing liability risks and creating safer environments for staff and contractors.
These aren’t isolated wins. They’re part of a growing trend among Housing Authorities committed to protecting their investments and serving their communities more effectively.
Why Steel Security Systems Are Changing the Game
Traditional methods like plywood and padlocks simply don’t cut it anymore. They’re easy to breach, costly to replace, and often fail to meet compliance standards. Steel security systems offer a better way:
Durability: Built to withstand forced entry attempts.
Flexibility: Easy to install and remove, even during extended vacancy periods.
Compliance: Meets HUD standards for securing vacant properties.
Cost Savings: Reduces damage repair costs and project delays.
For Housing Authorities, the choice is clear: proactive security isn’t just a best practice.
It’s a necessity.
Ready to See How Other Housing Authorities Are Doing It?
Vacant properties don’t have to be a liability. With the right approach, Housing Authorities can protect their investments, keep projects on schedule, and serve their communities better.
