Homelessness is a complex and sensitive issue, but unauthorized encampments near properties can create challenges such as theft, vandalism, and safety concerns. Implementing effective homeless deterrent strategies can help property managers address these challenges while maintaining safety and security.

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Understanding Homeless Encampments

Homeless encampments are temporary settlements created by individuals seeking shelter. While these encampments provide temporary relief for individuals, they can lead to significant property management issues, including:

• Theft of materials: Items like wiring, batteries, and equipment are frequently stolen and repurposed within camps.
• Vandalism and damage: Fuel siphoning, equipment tampering, and property damage can result in costly repairs.
• Employee safety risks: Encounters with individuals from nearby encampments can create unsafe situations for employees and visitors.

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As of January 2023, approximately 653,104 people were experiencing homelessness in the United States, marking the highest number since reporting began in 2007.

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Common Homeless Deterrent Strategies

Property managers often use a variety of methods to deter homeless encampments. Each approach has pros and cons, and choosing the right solution depends on the property’s specific needs.

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• Anti-Homeless Spikes - Metal spikes prevent loitering or sleeping on flat surfaces but are often criticized for being harsh and damaging to public perception.
  

• Outdoor Security Cameras - High-resolution, night-vision cameras monitor vulnerable areas but may not effectively deter determined individuals.
  
  
• Enhanced Property Design - Strategies like fencing, increased lighting, and frequent patrols create less hospitable environments but require ongoing maintenance and investment.
  

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Challenges Posed by Unauthorized Encampments

Unauthorized encampments can pose significant challenges for property owners, including increased crime rates, property devaluation, and substantial cleanup costs. Understanding the impact of these encampments is crucial for implementing effective deterrent strategies.

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Increased Crime Rates

Studies show that areas near homeless encampments often experience higher crime rates. Research by the National Institutes of Health highlights a 40-times higher rate of violent crimes and 27-times higher rate of nonviolent crimes among homeless populations compared to the general population.

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Property Devaluation

The presence of encampments can lead to a decline in property values.

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For instance, a study in Los Angeles estimated that encampments caused $9.3 billion in property value losses citywide.

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Municipal Costs

Cities spend millions managing unauthorized encampments. Houston, TX, for example, allocated $3.4 million annually as of 2019 to address encampment-related issues.

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Mobile Surveillance: A Better Homeless Deterrent Solution

Mobile surveillance trailers offer an innovative and effective way to deter unauthorized homeless encampments. These solutions combine advanced technology with practical deterrent measures to protect properties and mitigate risks.

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Mobile Monitoring with Active Deterrence

Equipped with high-definition cameras, night vision, and AI-driven analytics, surveillance trailers actively monitor properties. They detect unusual activity and notify property managers or law enforcement in real time.

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Built-in loudspeakers enable live agents to issue verbal warnings, such as: “You in the gray coat and brown pants, you are trespassing. Please leave the premises, or the police will be called.”

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Music from the Loudspeaker

Some mobile surveillance companies have used loud classical or children's music on a loop to deter homeless individuals from staying in certain areas.

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This approach, referred to by opponents as "psychological warfare" against the homeless, often disrupts local residents and businesses and has even led to lawsuits over excessive noise at night.

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However, the deterrent effect of loud music cannot be denied. Though it can be annoying, it has proven to be highly effective in discouraging homeless encampments and individuals from loitering in parking lots or near businesses. Laws on this practice vary by state and are enforced differently. Before pursuing, it is advised to check local ordinances to avoid potential legal issues.

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Hardened Components for High-Risk Locations

Surveillance trailers designed for high-risk areas feature hardened components to withstand tampering and theft. Protective measures include metal shells, advanced locks, and reinforced enclosures.

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Non-Invasive Presence

Unlike aggressive deterrents like anti-homeless spikes, mobile surveillance trailers provide a visible yet non-invasive solution. Their presence alone often discourages unauthorized activity while avoiding controversy.

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Custom Alerts and Notifications

Surveillance trailers can detect specific behaviors using built-in camera AI analytics, such as loitering or equipment tampering, and send tailored alerts. These features ensure swift responses, minimizing potential escalations.

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What Are the Next Steps to Securing a Site with Mobile Surveillance?

Step 1: Personalized Consultation

A representative assesses the property’s unique security needs and develops a custom site layout map to identify key areas of concern.

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STEP 2: Strategic Camera Placement

Property managers provide insights into past issues and collaborate with experts to position cameras and establish digital boundaries for optimal coverage.

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STEP 3: Protocol Establishment

Protocols for handling security breaches are finalized, such as notifying contacts or law enforcement, issuing audible warnings, or activating strobe lights when digital boundaries are crossed.

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STEP 4: Advanced Features

Tools like Axis® Loiter Guard identify individuals lingering in restricted areas and focus attention on potentially threatening behaviors.

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Conclusion

Homeless encampments pose unique challenges for property owners, from theft to safety risks. Mobile surveillance trailers offer an effective homeless deterrent solution, combining advanced technology with robust deterrence features. These trailers provide property managers with peace of mind while maintaining a non-invasive approach to security.

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About Deploy Surveillance

Deploy Surveillance offers self-sufficient, solar-powered hybrid mobile surveillance units for cloud-based monitoring, uniquely tailored to meet the security needs of any setting. All trailers and camera units are proudly made in the U.S.A. Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, the company serves clients nationwide. For more information or to request a custom quote, visit https://www.deploysurveillance.com.

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