What Security Measures are Shopping Plazas and Malls Expected to Have in Place?

Under Florida law, shopping plazas and malls have a duty to maintain their properties in a reasonably safe condition. This includes implementing security measures appropriate to the business type, location, and known risks. Expected measures often include functioning security cameras, uniformed guards, adequate lighting, alarm systems, and proper locking mechanisms for all shops and restricted areas. Failing to uphold this duty may expose mall owners to negligent security claims if criminal activity results in harm to visitors.

Negligent security claims arise when someone is harmed by a third party’s criminal act on a commercial property, and the property owner failed to provide adequate safety measures. If a shopping plaza or mall lacked basic protections like security cameras, lighting, or guards, and that failure contributed to a crime, the owner may be held liable. Florida law recognizes that business owners must anticipate and prevent foreseeable dangers, including crimes that could be deterred with proper security planning.

Yes, shopping plaza and mall owners are responsible for maintaining safety in all areas of their property—including parking lots and garages. These areas are common targets for criminal activity, and should be monitored with security cameras, lighting, and guard patrols. If someone is attacked or harmed in these spaces due to lack of security, a negligent security claim may be appropriate. An experienced attorney can help determine if the shopping center breached its duty of care.

In high-crime areas, shopping plazas and malls are expected to implement enhanced security measures to protect patrons. This may include increased security guard presence, well-maintained surveillance cameras, reinforced locking systems, emergency call stations, and stronger lighting in stairwells, walkways, and parking structures. When a property owner ignores local crime trends and fails to take reasonable steps to prevent harm, they may be legally responsible for resulting injuries or losses.

Security cameras are a critical part of a mall or shopping plaza’s safety infrastructure. They should be installed in key areas like entrances, parking lots, elevators, and near ATMs. Cameras must also be maintained and routinely checked to ensure they’re operational. Footage can help deter crime and also serve as evidence in negligent security lawsuits. If a camera was missing or malfunctioning at the time of a crime, that may support a victim’s legal claim.

Yes, a victim who is attacked at a mall or shopping plaza may be able to sue the property owner for negligent security. If the crime could have been prevented with appropriate safety measures—such as proper lighting, active security patrols, or working surveillance cameras—the owner may be found liable for breaching their duty of care. A negligent security attorney will review the facts of the case and determine whether a valid claim exists under Florida law.

Leighton Panoff Law is a nationally recognized leader in negligent security litigation, with over 35 years of experience representing victims of violent crimes on commercial properties. Mr. Leighton, a past president of the National Crime Victim Bar Association, authored the leading legal text on this subject. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to inadequate mall or shopping plaza security, Leighton Panoff Law has the knowledge and experience to fight for justice on your behalf. Contact us today for a consultation.