If your business gets vandalized, it’s frustrating and potentially expensive. You may find yourself wondering what you could have done to prevent it.
That question starts with another: Why do people vandalize businesses in the first place? If you understand their motives, will that help?
5 reasons for vandalism
While you can certainly find a nearly infinite number of reasons in particular cases, there are some overall reasons that come up repeatedly. Experts note that five of the most common reasons for vandalism are:
- The person is frustrated. They don’t know how to express it, so they use vandalism as an emotional outlet.
- The person wants to convey a message. It may be to you or to others in the community.
- The person is in a group that is vandalizing businesses. They may do things in the group that they would never do if they were alone.
- They are playing a game. When young people do this, it’s often because they think that it’s fun or they enjoy the thrill.
- They are trying to get revenge. For instance, someone who was denied services — even for a valid reason — may come back and vandalize the business at night.
As a business owner, you can’t always prevent these types of things from happening. Security cameras, alarm systems and lighting can certainly help, but there’s just no way you’re going to be at your business 24/7, keeping an eye on things.
The good news is that you may be able to get compensation or a payout from the insurance company to fix the damage. Make sure you know what steps to take if that’s something you need to pursue.