Private Military Housing Security Risks and Solutions

Private military housing focused on providing housing options for military personnel and their families. Contrary to conventional logic, they are not immune to security risks or criminal activity. The unique nature of these communities, including their location near military installations and the transient nature of military families, makes them particularly vulnerable to criminal activity.  

For decades, the US military has been outsourcing the responsibility of housing its service members to private contractors – property management companies and real estate investors. However, recent events have brought to light some of the security concerns and pain points associated with privatized military housing. 

1. Access Control 

One of the most significant security risks at private military housing complexes is the lack of proper access control. These communities often have multiple entrances and exits, which can make it difficult to monitor who is entering and leaving. Additionally, many of these complexes do not have the same level of security personnel as military installations. This can lead to unauthorized individuals gaining access to the community, putting residents at risk. 

2. Security Staff Issues 

Another security risk is the lack of communication between residents and law enforcement. Many private military housing complexes have their own security personnel, but they may not have the same level of training and resources as law enforcement. This can lead to a lack of coordination between the two groups, making it difficult to respond to criminal activity effectively. 

3. Property Crimes 

Criminal activity at private military housing complexes can take many forms. One of the most common is property crime, such as theft and burglary, compounded with the propensity of active-duty soldiers to keep firearms and other valuable equipment off-base and in their personal possession. The transient nature of military families means that homes may be left unoccupied for extended periods, making them an easy target for criminals. 

4. Drug Activity 

Drug-related activity is also a concern in some private military housing complexes. The proximity to military installations can make these communities a target for drug traffickers looking to sell to military personnel. This can lead to an increase in drug-related crime and pose a risk to the safety and well-being of residents. 

5. Domestic Violence 

Domestic violence is another issue that can occur in private military housing complexes. The stresses of military life can contribute to domestic violence, and the close proximity of families in these communities can make it challenging to escape an abusive situation.  

The Department of Defense has taken steps to address domestic violence in military families. The Family Advocacy Program (FAP) provides support and resources for victims of domestic violence, including counseling, legal assistance, and safety planning. The FAP also provides education and training for military personnel and their families to help prevent domestic violence. 

However, despite these efforts, domestic violence remains a significant issue in military housing complexes. According to a report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), The Department of Defense recorded over 40,000 domestic abuse incidents involving military servicemembers, spouses, or intimate partners from FY 2015-19. Of these, 74% were physical abuse. The report also found that many cases go unreported, indicating that the actual number of domestic violence incidents may be much higher. 

The lack of communication and coordination between residents and law enforcement can make it difficult to respond to domestic violence effectively. To address these concerns, among others, private military housing complexes must take proactive measures to improve security outcomes and communication with law enforcement. 

Proactive Security Solutions for Private Military Housing 

For effective security for any kind of multifamily residential property, 24/7 security is often best. However, many companies, especially those managing private military housing- where a primary goal is affordability- may not have the resources to support around the clock guards or concierge services. This is where outsourcing security functions to a managed security service provider can prove extremely valuable.  

Knowing that a proactive security solution is needed, but unsure of where or how to go about setting up a system, can prove overwhelming. This leaves security outcomes unresolved, and residents and the property impacted negatively. Proactive security can make all the difference. Here are two of the most effective solutions. 

Integrated Security 

Integrated security systems can come with a variety of benefits, up to and including: 

• Video surveillance
• Access control system
• License plate recognition
• Video monitoring
• Video review/ recording
• On site speakers/ alarms

Integrated security systems are typically multilayered, intuitive, and designed to function with minimal interference needed from onsite staff or property management. Depending on the service provider, it can include high-resolution cameras and installation, automatic recording, remote monitoring, remote access control, automatic emergency responses, and more. 

Live Video Monitoring 

Passive surveillance camera systems may record activity that occurs in and around a private military housing community, but passive recordings are only useful in determining if an event has occurred after it has already happened. While the presence of cameras themselves may be enough to discourage some-would be criminals, in the event that a breach does occur, passive cameras may have caught clear images and information to help police and property owners determine what happened- but locating that footage and determining its quality only happens after the fact. 

Live video monitoring, however, is a proactive security solution that uses a combination of video analytics and highly trained security professionals to monitor a property for suspicious or unwanted activity in real time. 

Live video monitoring can be an invaluable tool in spotting and responding to suspicious activity. Cutting edge analytics-based cameras are strategically placed throughout the property in key areas. They flag activity, not simple motion, which is then reviewed in real-time by security professionals remotely. These trained operators can activate onsite warning speakers at trespassers or other intruders, dispersing them from the area, or contact local law enforcement dispatch with real-time details and descriptions of activity as it happens.  

When police dispatch receives detailed information of activity in progress, they typically elevate the priority of that call, and respond more quickly. Faster police responses can lead to an overall reduction in criminal activity, and better security outcomes overall. When officers respond on site quickly, they are often able to intervene in situations before they escalate, reducing potential damage and liability as well. 

Housing hundreds or even thousands of residents in a multifamily residential community of any kind comes with immense liability concerns, and these concerns are exacerbated by issues that tend to plague private military housing facilities. Negligent security claims can create issues for a property owner’s bottom line, including insurance costs and occupancy rates. With live video monitoring, however, liability risks can be mitigated, such as in this example, where potential disaster was averted after live surveillance captured someone starting a fire in an apartment community, and in this case, where police were dispatched in time to intervene in potential weapon activity at a multifamily community. 

Ultimately, live video monitoring and integrated security systems are powerful tools for enhancing security and mitigating risks at private military housing communities. With the ability to detect and respond to security threats in real-time, deter criminal activity, provide remote access to a property, improve efficiency, and provide peace-of-mind to both property management and residents, proactive security can significantly enhance the safety and reputation of a property.  

Considering upgrading your security systems, and looking to save up to 60% when compared to the costs of traditional security guards? Contact us today, schedule a time to speak with a multifamily residential security expert. Learn more about Stealth’s multifamily security solutions here.  

Texas Private Security License Number: B14187.