With the start of a new year, many people are seeking a “reset” button on the intense issues the previous year held. While 2020 was filled with challenges, politics were of exceptional concern. This makes it more important than ever to consider how to keep politics out of your multifamily community.

The attack on the Capitol in early January proved that political emotions are at an all-time breaking point. Where once a heated argument over political parties sufficed, now citizens are taking a more physical approach. They want to make clear where they stand on the party lines.

 

One of the major concerns of a property manager is keeping residents living in harmony within their multifamily housing community. Keeping political views at a respectful level is more important now than ever to avoid conflict on property grounds.

 

Below are some ideas to keep politics out of your multifamily community.

 

1. Keep Political Messages off the Community Boards and Public Spaces

Make it a policy that flyers, stickers, or posters of a political nature are not allowed on the community message board. In addition, do not permit them in shared spaces such as the laundry room or clubhouse.

 

 

2. No Posting Anything Political on The Property’s Social Media

Be sure your staff knows that nothing in political nature should be posted on the property’s Facebook, Instagram, or other social platforms pages. This includes any images of the property that may contain a resident’s political sign which may be on display in a window or balcony.

 

 

3. Designate a Political Sign Area on the Property

While you can’t control what residents display in their private spaces, you can encourage them to post political signs in a designated area on the property instead. To do this, send a message to residents explaining the new approach. Since political emotions are at an all-time high, ask them—out of respect for their neighbors—to use the designated area to show support for political causes rather than placing signs in windows or outdoor spaces.

In addition, placing all signs in one neutral location removes the identity of the individuals who want to share their political leanings. However, be careful not to choose a high-traffic spot for the designated area. Avoid places such as the dog park or the front office to maintain a neutral and respectful environment.

 

 

4. No Political Discussions Between Employees Where Residents Can Hear

Ask your office staff to take political discussions to private spaces. Remind them not to have controversial conversations in front of residents or potential residents.

Of course, freedom of speech is a cornerstone of America. Because of this, asking residents and staff to keep their political opinions to themselves can be tricky. Therefore, be sure to deliver any of these initiatives with a high degree of respect and sensitivity. Always present them as “options,” even if they are essentially rules in nature.

With these efforts in place, here’s to a peaceful 2021!