Keep Your Vacant Property Safe from Squatters
Proven deterrent measures to protect your Philadelphia investment while it sits vacant — coordinated entirely by TrustArt Realty.
In light of the growing concern surrounding squatters, TrustArt Realty is implementing proven deterrent measures to lower risks for owners with vacant properties. Contact your Property Manager or indicate your preference on your onboarding form to get started.
What Are Squatters & Why Should You Care?
Squatters are individuals who take up residence in a property without the owner's permission. Vacant properties are prime targets — and the consequences in Philadelphia can be severe.
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🏚️Property DamageUnauthorized occupants often cause significant structural and cosmetic damage, leading to costly repairs before the next tenancy.
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⚖️Legal ComplicationsSquatter removal in Pennsylvania requires a formal eviction process — costing thousands in legal fees and taking 8 months or more to resolve.
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💸Financial LossesLost rental income, cleanup costs, and legal fees compound quickly — making prevention far cheaper than remediation.
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🔒Liability ExposureUnauthorized occupants on your property may create insurance and liability complications that are difficult to resolve.
Vacant Property Protection Packages
Two tiers of protection — from visual deterrents to full alarm monitoring with police response. Both coordinated entirely by TrustArt Realty.
Standard Package
Effective visual deterrents — a smart first line of defense
- Motion Sensor Lights installed front and rear
- Fake camera housings — visible deterrent at a fraction of real camera cost
- Professional "No Trespassing" signage at entry points
- All hardware included and installed by the TrustArt team
SimpliSafe Rental
Full alarm monitoring with police dispatch — complete peace of mind
- Door and window sensors on all access points
- Keypad with secure access code to arm/disarm the system
- Automatic police dispatch when alarm is triggered
- TrustArt property visit if alarm fires ($85/hr; $127.50 after hours)
- System removed when your property is leased
How to Get Started
Getting your vacant property protected is straightforward. Here's what to expect.
Choose Your Package
Select the Standard Package ($85 one-time) or the SimpliSafe Rental ($100/mo) — or both for maximum protection.
Indicate Your Interest
Check the box on your onboarding form or contact your Property Manager to let us know which package you'd like.
We Handle Installation
Our team schedules and completes installation quickly. You don't need to be present or coordinate anything.
Property Gets Leased
Once your property is rented, we remove or transition the system in time for the new tenant's move-in.
Complete Fee Schedule
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
← Swipe to see all columns
| Service | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Package | Motion sensor lights (front & rear), fake camera housings, no trespassing sign — fully installed | $85 one-time |
| SimpliSafe Rental | Door/window sensors, armed keypad, police auto-dispatch | $100 / month |
| SimpliSafe Deposit | 2-month reserve; reconciled when system is removed | $200 |
| Property Visit (Business Hours) | TrustArt team member dispatched when alarm fires | $85 / hour |
| Property Visit (After Hours) | TrustArt team member dispatched outside business hours | $127.50 / hour |
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our vacant property protection services.
Ready to Protect Your Vacant Property?
Don't wait until a squatter incident forces your hand. Reach out to TrustArt Realty today.
DAWGS — Steel Door & Window Guard Systems
For properties staying vacant longer or in higher-risk areas, TrustArt Realty has access to a more heavy-duty physical security solution through our contract with DAWGS.
Door And Window Guard Systems
DAWGS (Door And Window Guard Systems) is the national leader in vacant property security. They manufacture and rent attractive steel panels installed over door and window openings on vacant buildings — physically blocking unauthorized entry rather than simply detecting it.
The panels improve curb appeal, meet local property ordinances, and provide physical security that alarms and cameras alone cannot match. Trusted by property managers, real estate investors, housing authorities, and rehabbers across the country.
- Steel panels installed over doors and windows — physically prevents entry
- Neutral color and clean design that improves property appearance
- Code compliant — meets local property ordinances
- Rental-based — removed when the property is ready for occupancy
- National coverage with regional distribution centers
When Does a DAWGS Setup Make Sense?
Our standard deterrent packages are the right first step for most vacant properties. DAWGS is the logical next layer when stronger physical protection is needed.
- 🏚️The property has been vacant for an extended period with no tenant in the near term
- 📍The property is in a neighborhood with elevated break-in or squatter activity
- 🔔The property has already experienced trespassing or unauthorized entry
- 🛠️The property is undergoing renovation and needs to be secured between work periods
- 🛡️You want the strongest available physical barrier while the property sits vacant
