You’ve probably heard of the usual benefits of an outdoor lighting install: increased home value, boosted curb appeal, ROI, etc. What people tend to overlook, however, is the way in which exterior illumination also fights off potential criminal activity! When properties are well-lit, criminals tend to steer away because the last thing they want is to be seen. Think about it: criminals likely wouldn’t dare approach a property with zero dark spots for them to hide–especially given the rise in popularity of security camera systems alongside outdoor lighting.
A study conducted by a scientific research team called Crime Lab–in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice, the New York City Police Department, and the New York City Housing Authority–found a correlation between crime at night and outdoor lighting. In short, public housing areas that received new outdoor lights had lower crime rates (39% less) than those lacking the extra light. 80 developments were analyzed in the study. Per homesecuritycity.com, “Exterior lighting is key for home security because it can be the first line of defense against a burglar.”
These results go beyond residential properties. According to progressivecommercial.com, studies show that 3 out of 4 commercial burglaries are committed against businesses with inadequate or no lighting! “Nearly all commercial burglaries happen at night when thieves expect a commercial property to be poorly lit and unoccupied.” It is suggested that your business has a dusk/dawn timer for exterior lights and that points of entrance and exit are properly illuminated. This plan in combination with leaving some interior lights on will deter criminal activity.
Ready to finally feel completely safe in your residential and or commercial property without compromising any stylistic factors? Fill out a form on our website or give us a call at 866-648-3548 to get started with your outdoor lighting install.