Insurance companies may use CPTED assessments and compliance records to defend against claims, especially bad faith claims. They may argue that a property owner's compliance with CPTED standards shows their good faith efforts to provide a secure environment.
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design is the proper design and effective use of the built environment that can lead to a reduction in the fear and incidence of crime and an improvement in the quality of life.
A CPTED analysis covers:
Passed as part of House Bill 837, Florida Statute 768.0706 offers a "presumption against liability" to multifamily residential property owners in negligent security claims if they meet specific security requirements. To gain this protection, properties with five or more units must have done the following:
Complete a CPTED assessment: The assessment must be no more than three years old and performed by a law enforcement agency or a qualified Florida CPTED Practitioner.
Substantially comply with the assessment: The property owner must remain in "substantial compliance" with the recommendations of the CPTED assessment.
Implement additional security measures: The property must have a range of security features according to Fla. Stat. § 768.0706(2)(a).
Provide employee training: All employees must receive crime deterrence and safety training. New hires must be trained within 60 days.