Frontline Safety Concerns Mount Among Property Managers, New PSU Survey Shows

Safety and security challenges are creating unprecedented strain for frontline property management professionals,according to a new bilingual survey conducted by Portland State University's Center for Real Estate. Initiated after industry partners raised alarms about changing workplace conditions, the study offers insight into the daily risks experienced by property management staff for multifamily and commercial properties.

The survey results highlight a stark shift in day-to-day operations. A striking 58% of respondents reported actively avoiding an interaction with a tenant out of concern for their personal safety. In addition, 75% of respondents reported requesting assistance from security or law enforcement while interacting with tenants, visitors, or other individuals on the job.

The ongoing pressure is taking a measurable human toll. Concerns surrounding safety and security negatively impacted stress levels for 70% of respondents and affected the mental well-being of 62%. Interestingly, safety concerns had no impact on intentions to resign, willingness to enforce property policies, or the modification of management decisions for the majority of participants.

"I was amazed at the number of responses we got from local property management professionals," said Julia Freybote, Cameron Professor of Finance & Real Estate. "It highlights how much of a concern safety and security are for them."

Michael Havlik, academic director of Real Estate Property Management, emphasized the necessity of using hard data to illustrate frontline experiences.

"As we prepare the next generation of talent to explore careers in property management, folks working in those fields are sharing stories that the environment is changing and it's becoming more dangerous," Havlik said. "We decided to measure what these essential employees are experiencing, and because we did, we received many notes of appreciation for listening and bringing real voices to this issue."

Regulatory barriers also pose a significant obstacle for workers on the ground. Nearly 68% of respondents felt that existing laws or regulations currently limit their ability to address individuals who pose safety or security risks.

"While this survey focuses on safety, it tells a much larger story about gaps in mental health resources, addiction treatment, public safety response and supportive services," said Megan Howard, owner of Tandem Property Management. "Housing providers are increasingly finding themselves on the front lines of challenges that extend far beyond housing. We need additional resources, responsive public-safety and behavioral-health systems, and community partnerships so property management professionals can focus on what they are there to do - provide safe, stable housing and vibrant communities."