Man charged after multiple car break-ins

A man accused of breaking into 24 cars, stealing items and damaging a CCTV camera at a unit block in Sydney's west will remain behind bars after failing to apply for bail.

Christopher Charles Clapman, 40, was chased by police while riding a push bike away from the Homebush complex in the early hours of Tuesday, where he was allegedly seen acting suspiciously by a resident who phoned authorities.

Later that day he was charged with 25 counts of malicious damage, and during an appearance at Burwood Local Court on Wednesday Clapman did not apply for bail, which was formally refused.

"It will be alleged a total of 24 cars were broken into, personal effects were stolen from at least two vehicles, and a camera was damaged," police said.

Clapman is expected to reappear at Burwood Local Court via audiovisual link on January 21.