As a commercial landlord or tenant, safety should always be a top priority. Unfortunately, in some areas, crime can increase, and this can create an unsafe environment for tenants and their employees. In such situations, it is important to take steps to ensure that the property is safe and secure. Here are some steps that a commercial landlord or tenant can take when the property is no longer safe due to increased crime in the area.

1. Assess the situation

The first step is to assess the situation and determine the level of risk. This may involve consulting with local law enforcement or private security firms to obtain information about crime rates and the types of crimes that are occurring in the area. It may also involve conducting a security audit of the property to identify any vulnerabilities or areas that need improvement.

2. Improve security measures

Once the level of risk has been assessed, it is important to take steps to improve security measures. This may include installing security cameras, adding lighting to dark areas, and upgrading locks and access control systems. Additionally, a security guard or a private security firm can be hired to provide an additional layer of protection.

3. Educate tenants and employees

It is important to educate tenants and employees about safety and security measures. This may involve providing training on how to respond in the event of an emergency, as well as sharing information about local crime trends and how to stay safe.

4. Develop a safety plan

A safety plan should be developed to outline how the property will respond in the event of an emergency. This may include procedures for evacuating the property, contacting law enforcement, and communicating with tenants and employees.

5. Consider relocating

If the level of risk is too high or security measures are not effective, it may be necessary to consider relocating to a safer area. This decision should be made after careful consideration of the costs and benefits of relocating, including the impact on business operations and the ability to attract and retain tenants.

In conclusion, when the property is no longer safe due to increased crime in the area, it is important to take steps to ensure that the property is safe and secure. This may involve assessing the situation, improving security measures, educating tenants and employees, developing a safety plan, and considering relocating. By taking these steps, commercial landlords and tenants can help to protect their property and those who use it.