A look at steps to beat elevator vandals

Defacement and damage to an elevator can cause a number of headaches for building managers. And since elevators having so many parts, they could be looked upon as a troublemaker’s dream.

Buttons to tamper with. Mirrored (and indeed any) surfaces to graffiti. Overhead lights to crack. These and other acts of vandalism can leave a nasty mark on not only the elevator itself, but the reputation of a building and the satisfaction of its residents.

Florida law and vandalism

The state of Florida and local jurisdictions are eager to tackle the defacement issue, as this example of local ordinance code demonstrates. Anyone caught leaving an illegal mark on public or private property will be expected to remove it personally. Refusal to do so means the offender will pay for the process to occur by other means.

Our state means business when it comes to defacing or tampering with operational appliances. Florida Statutes Chapter 806 cites these incidents as anywhere from misdemeanors of the first and second degree on up to a felony of the third degree if the damage results in operational impairment. Unfortunately, even the most blatant offenders are rarely caught.

Take swift action in every instance

Responding quickly to vandalism and damage can be a double-edged sword. On the plus side, it cleans up the mess and sends a signal to the perpetrators that it won’t be tolerated. On the down side, there’s nothing more attractive to the destructive mindset than a clean new canvas.

Nevertheless, taking immediate action is always the proper response. Damage and defacement, like any crime, will only worsen if word gets out that it’s being tolerated. The problem gets more serious when it becomes aggressive vandalism: a far more permanent, far more difficult-to-handle method of defacement.

Why are elevators so enticing for criminals?

The ideal situation for any criminal is to operate in is secrecy or, at the very least, privacy. The enclosed environment of an elevator offers an arena for graffiti artists and vandals that could hardly be more perfect. Some elevators do incorporate cameras to record inside activity, but it’s not a universal practice. Out of sight, offenders are free to wreak havoc.

Things become serious when the damage starts to affect property value, sends a message of urban decline, and makes people fear for their safety. And if the actual mechanisms of an elevator are compromised, that’s a very serious matter.

The other forms defacement can take

Litter can be a real problem inside elevators, as well as outside of them. Reckless behavior such as mashing door buttons or jumping on the elevator floor can also lead to mechanical issues.

Causing problems with an elevator’s operation/appearance needn’t necessarily be a malicious act. Construction work (if carelessly executed) can leave behind debris or damage to an elevator interior. In addition, new tenants who move in may leave knocks, scrapes and scratches on the interior.

How to mitigate damage

Psychologically, a darker interior on your elevator surfaces will go some way in deterring, at the least, graffiti offenders. If you have the means to install a camera, do so. This is a very effective step in deterring vandalism. If you don’t have a service elevator, hang up padding to cover surfaces when workmen or movers are transporting large furniture or equipment.

Keep elevators as clean as you can. Be vigilant for litter items and maintain trash receptacles outside of elevator doors. Keeping things spic and span sends a positive message that you care about the property and the people in it.

A “No Vandalism” sign coupled with a copy of the relevant statutory punishment could also deter offenders. And a “Please operate with care” notice along with a few instructions for riders may help in diminishing careless use.

Finally, there are materials you can choose to use in an elevator upgrade that will both hide and deter vandalism, such as mesh covering on the walls, darker colors, grates that protect lights, and easily-replaceable and graffiti-resistant surfaces. Consult with an elevator upgrade specialist to find the right mix of materials that will keep your elevators looking their best.

From corporate to condos, Connections Elevator specializes in forward-thinking that helps our customers install uniquely suited solutions. For first-class maintenance, modernization, repairs and contract management, you can reach us at (954) 792-1234 or info@connectionselevator.com, or take advantage of a complimentary consultation via our contact form.