As a property owner or manager, you may find yourself facing one of the most difficult situations in housing: domestic violence on property. When abuse occurs behind closed doors, it not only affects the individuals involved but also impacts the safety and stability of the entire community. Understanding your role, and your resources, can help you protect residents, support survivors, and uphold the law.
We encourage managers to use the term survivor rather than victim. This simple shift acknowledges resilience and strength. Survivors are not defined by what has happened to them, but by their courage to move forward.
The Ripple Effect of Domestic Violence
Domestic violence doesn’t stop at the front door. It can spill into the community in ways that directly affect your work as a manager:
- Employment Disruption: Nearly 60% of survivors lose their jobs due to abuse. This often leads to late rent, inconsistent communication, and financial instability.
- Homelessness: About 38% of survivors experience homelessness, which increases turnover and destabilizes housing communities.
- Safety Risks: Tension and fear can spread, leaving neighbors feeling unsafe in their own homes.
Recognizing these impacts helps managers respond with both awareness and empathy.
Legal Protections Every Manager Should Know
The Violence Against Women Act offers protections for survivors living in federally funded housing. This means survivors cannot be denied housing or evicted simply because they experienced abuse. Importantly, VAWA protections extend to all survivors, regardless of gender.
As a manager, knowing these laws not only keeps you compliant but also ensures residents feel secure when coming forward. Click Here to review HUD’s most up-to-date VAWA Forms.
Your Role in Building a Safer Community
When faced with domestic violence on property, managers should balance compassion with safety. Here are key actions you can take:
- Encourage reporting. Make sure residents know they can safely share concerns about domestic violence.
- Do not confront abusers directly. Especially if an individual is armed, leave intervention to law enforcement.
- Lean on law enforcement. Police can be a vital partner in ensuring immediate safety.
- Provide resources. Share hotlines, shelters, and advocacy services. Many hotlines operate in multiple languages.
- Promote awareness. Remind residents that there is no shame in surviving domestic violence.
Managers play a crucial role in creating supportive environments where survivors feel empowered to seek help. By listening without judgment, connecting residents to resources, and prioritizing safety, you can help break the silence around domestic violence.
If you or your residents need help, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Together, we can make sure our properties are not just places to live, but safe havens where every resident has the chance to thrive.
