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Merger with CPA:16 and CPA:15 (Narratives) (Details) (USD $)
 0 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended 12 Months Ended 0 Months Ended 11 Months Ended 21 Months Ended 3 Months Ended 9 Months Ended
Nov. 27, 2013
Sep. 28, 2012
Dec. 31, 2014
property
tenant
sqft
Sep. 30, 2014
Jun. 30, 2014
Mar. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Sep. 30, 2013
Jun. 30, 2013
Mar. 31, 2013
Sep. 30, 2014
Dec. 31, 2014
property
tenant
sqft
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Mar. 31, 2014
Jan. 31, 2014
investment
Dec. 31, 2014
Sep. 30, 2014
Dec. 31, 2012
Dec. 31, 2012
Sep. 30, 2012
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2011
Sep. 19, 2012
property
Jul. 31, 2013
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Per share closing price                               $ 59.08wpc_PerShareClosingPrice                  
Cash consideration $ 13,748,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross                     $ 1,338,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross $ 0us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross $ 152,356,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross                      
Number of real estate properties     783us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties                 783us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties         783us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties         783us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties      
Number of tenants     219wpc_NumberOfTenants                 219wpc_NumberOfTenants         219wpc_NumberOfTenants         219wpc_NumberOfTenants      
Square footage of real estate properties     87,300,000us-gaap_AreaOfRealEstateProperty                 87,300,000us-gaap_AreaOfRealEstateProperty         87,300,000us-gaap_AreaOfRealEstateProperty         87,300,000us-gaap_AreaOfRealEstateProperty      
Occupancy rate                       98.60%wpc_OccupancyRate                          
Non-recourse debt 21,023,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt   2,532,683,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt       1,492,410,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt         2,532,683,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt 1,492,410,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt       2,532,683,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt         2,532,683,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt      
Mortgage loans on real estate, interest rate                         0.00%us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate 4.20%us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate                      
Senior credit facilities – revolver     807,518,000us-gaap_LineOfCredit       100,000,000us-gaap_LineOfCredit         807,518,000us-gaap_LineOfCredit 100,000,000us-gaap_LineOfCredit       807,518,000us-gaap_LineOfCredit         807,518,000us-gaap_LineOfCredit      
Revenue from related parties                       295,492,000us-gaap_RevenueFromRelatedParties 217,377,000us-gaap_RevenueFromRelatedParties 262,048,000us-gaap_RevenueFromRelatedParties                      
Income from operations                       211,170,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest 94,317,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest 85,175,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest                      
Operating expenses     176,236,000us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses 128,178,000us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses 161,359,000us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses 171,605,000us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses 105,076,000us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses 91,625,000us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses 80,811,000us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses 75,194,000us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses   637,378,000us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses 352,706,000us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses 299,491,000us-gaap_CostsAndExpenses                      
Merger and acquisition expense                       34,465,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts 9,230,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts 31,639,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts                      
Total identifiable net assets 13,748,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet                                                
Goodwill     692,415,000us-gaap_Goodwill       350,208,000us-gaap_Goodwill         692,415,000us-gaap_Goodwill 350,208,000us-gaap_Goodwill 329,132,000us-gaap_Goodwill     692,415,000us-gaap_Goodwill   329,132,000us-gaap_Goodwill 329,132,000us-gaap_Goodwill   692,415,000us-gaap_Goodwill 63,607,000us-gaap_Goodwill    
Market value of stock   $ 45.07wpc_MarketValueOfStock                                              
Increase decrease in market value of stock price   $ 3.93wpc_IncreaseDecreaseInMarketValueOfStockPrice                                              
Gain on change in control of interests                       105,947,000wpc_GainOnChangeInControlOfInterests 0wpc_GainOnChangeInControlOfInterests 20,744,000wpc_GainOnChangeInControlOfInterests                      
Recognition of deferred revenue as a result of the CPA®:16 Merger                     4,800,000us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationDispositionOfAssets                            
Valuation techniques                      
The fair values of our previously-held equity interests and our noncontrolling interests were based on the estimated fair market values of the underlying real estate and mortgage debt, both of which were determined by management relying in part on a third party. Real estate valuation requires significant judgment. We determined the significant inputs to be Level 3 with ranges for the entire portfolio as follows:
 
•
Discount rates applied to the estimated net operating income of each property ranged from approximately 3.50% to 14.75%;
•
Discount rates applied to the estimated residual value of each property ranged from approximately 5.75% to 12.50%;
•
Residual capitalization rates applied to the properties ranged from approximately 7.00% to 11.50%.
•
The fair market value of such property level debt was determined based upon available market data for comparable liabilities and by applying selected discount rates to the stream of future debt payments; and
•
Discount rates applied to cash flows ranged from approximately 2.70% to 10.00%.
The fair values of our previously-held equity interests and our noncontrolling interests are based on the estimated fair market values of the underlying real estate and related mortgage debt, both of which were determined by management relying in part on a third party. Real estate valuation requires significant judgment. We determined the significant inputs to be Level 3 with ranges for the entire portfolio as follows:
 
•
Discount rates applied to the estimated net operating income of each property ranged from approximately 4.75% to 15.25%;
•
Discount rates applied to the estimated residual value of each property ranged from approximately 4.75% to 14.00%;
•
Residual capitalization rates applied to the properties ranged from approximately 5.00% to 12.50%;
•
The fair market value of the property level debt was determined based upon available market data for comparable liabilities and by applying selected discount rates to the stream of future debt payments; and
•
Discount rates applied to the property level debt cash flows ranged from approximately 1.80% to 8.75%.
                          
Marcourt Investments Inc                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Number of real estate properties                                               12us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties
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= wpc_MarcourtInvestmentsMember		  
Equity method investment, ownership percentage                                               52.63%us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage
/ us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis
= wpc_MarcourtInvestmentsMember		  
CPA: 16 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Share per share exchange rate                               0.1830wpc_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsIssuedOrIssuableNumberOfSharesIssuedPerShare
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		                  
Per share exchange rate                                                 $ 11.25us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionSharePrice
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= wpc_Cpa16Member
Merger consideration     1,816,859,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		                       1,816,859,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		 1,800,000,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		                  
Shares issued as compensation, shares                               30,729,878us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsIssuedOrIssuableNumberOfSharesIssued
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		                  
Fair value of W. P. Carey shares of common stock issued                               1,815,521,000us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestIssuedOrIssuableValueAssigned
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		                  
Shares of acquired entity received                               168,041,772us-gaap_ConversionOfStockSharesConverted1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		                  
Cash consideration     1,338,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		                       1,338,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		 1,338,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		                  
Non-recourse debt     1,768,288,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		     1,768,288,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		           1,768,288,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		     1,768,288,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		 1,768,288,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		 1,768,288,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		         1,768,288,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		      
Senior credit facilities – revolver                               170,000,000us-gaap_LineOfCredit
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		                  
Lease revenues                                 251,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateRevenueNet
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		                
Income from operations                                 91,100,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		                
Income attributable to noncontrolling interests                                 2,400,000us-gaap_IncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
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Merger and acquisition expense                     30,500,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		   5,000,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		         10,600,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		              
Total identifiable net assets     1,814,132,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		     1,808,287,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		           1,814,132,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		     1,808,287,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		   1,814,132,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		         1,814,132,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		      
Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interest     99,633,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		     99,345,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		           99,633,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		     99,345,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		 99,633,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		 99,633,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		         99,633,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		      
Goodwill     346,642,000us-gaap_Goodwill
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		     348,972,000us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		           346,642,000us-gaap_Goodwill
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		     348,972,000us-gaap_Goodwill
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		 346,642,000us-gaap_Goodwill
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		 346,642,000us-gaap_Goodwill
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		         346,642,000us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		      
Carrying value of equity investment in CPA pre merger                               274,100,000wpc_CarryingValueOfEquityInterestPreMerger
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Fair value of equity interest     349,749,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		                       347,164,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		 349,749,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		                  
Number of unconsolidated investments                               18wpc_NumberofUnconsolidatedInvestments
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		                  
Number of shares owned                               38,229,294wpc_NumberOfSharesOwned
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		                  
Total Consideration     2,061,141,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredIncludingEquityInterestInAcquireeHeldPriorToCombination1
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		                       2,057,914,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredIncludingEquityInterestInAcquireeHeldPriorToCombination1
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		 2,061,141,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredIncludingEquityInterestInAcquireeHeldPriorToCombination1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		                  
Fair value of noncontrolling interests acquired     278,187,000wpc_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		     278,829,000wpc_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedNoncontrollingInterest
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		           278,187,000wpc_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedNoncontrollingInterest
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		     278,829,000wpc_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedNoncontrollingInterest
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		 278,187,000wpc_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedNoncontrollingInterest
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		 278,187,000wpc_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedNoncontrollingInterest
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		         278,187,000wpc_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member		      
Fair value of W.P.Carey shares of common stock issued     1,815,521,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredEquityInterestsIssuedAndIssuable
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		                       1,815,521,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredEquityInterestsIssuedAndIssuable
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= wpc_Cpa16Member		                    
CPA: 16 - Global | Level 3 | Net operating income | Minimum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate                               4.75%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
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= us-gaap_MinimumMember
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= wpc_OperatingIncomeMember		                  
CPA: 16 - Global | Level 3 | Net operating income | Maximum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate                               15.25%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
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CPA: 16 - Global | Level 3 | Estimated residual value | Minimum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate                               4.75%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
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CPA: 16 - Global | Level 3 | Estimated residual value | Maximum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate                               14.00%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
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CPA: 16 - Global | Level 3 | Residual capitalization rates | Minimum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate                               5.00%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
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CPA: 16 - Global | Level 3 | Residual capitalization rates | Maximum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate                               12.50%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
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CPA: 16 - Global | Level 3 | Cash flows | Minimum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate                               1.80%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
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= wpc_CashFlowsMember		                  
CPA: 16 - Global | Level 3 | Cash flows | Maximum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate                               8.75%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
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CPA: 16 - Global | Additional Paid-in Capital                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Noncontrolling interest, decrease from redemption or purchase of interest           42,000,000us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromRedemptions
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis
= us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember		                                      
CPA: 15 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Share per share exchange rate   0.2326wpc_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsIssuedOrIssuableNumberOfSharesIssuedPerShare
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Per share exchange rate   $ 11.40us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionSharePrice
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Merger consideration   1,500,000,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                 1,532,718,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		            
Shares issued as compensation, shares   28,170,643us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestsIssuedOrIssuableNumberOfSharesIssued
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Fair value of W. P. Carey shares of common stock issued   1,380,362,000us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionEquityInterestIssuedOrIssuableValueAssigned
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Per share closing price   $ 49.00wpc_PerShareClosingPrice
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Cash per share exchange rate   $ 1.25wpc_BusinessAcquisitionPerShareCashConsideration
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Total per share consideration   $ 12.65wpc_BusinessAcquisitionEquityTotalPerShareConsideration
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Shares of acquired entity received   121,194,272us-gaap_ConversionOfStockSharesConverted1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Cash consideration   152,356,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                 152,356,000us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		            
Increase in term loan facility   175,000,000us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityIncreaseDecreaseForPeriodNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Number of real estate properties   305us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Number of tenants   76wpc_NumberOfTenants
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Square footage of real estate properties   27,000,000us-gaap_AreaOfRealEstateProperty
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Occupancy rate   99.00%wpc_OccupancyRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Weighted average lease term   9 years 8 months 12 days                                              
Pro rata non-recourse debt   1,200,000,000wpc_ProRataDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Non-recourse debt   1,350,755,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                       1,350,755,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		         1,350,755,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		 1,350,755,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		          
Mortgage loans on real estate, interest rate   5.60%us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                              
Revenue from related parties                                         19,000,000us-gaap_RevenueFromRelatedParties
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		        
Equity income from managed REITs                                         4,500,000us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentSummarizedFinancialInformationNetIncomeLoss
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		        
Lease revenues                                       57,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateRevenueNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		          
Income from operations                                       9,500,000us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		          
Income attributable to noncontrolling interests                                       2,500,000us-gaap_IncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		          
Total identifiable net assets                           1,663,363,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		         1,663,363,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		 1,663,363,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		          
Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interest   237,359,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                       237,359,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		         237,359,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		 237,359,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		          
Goodwill   268,683,000us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                       268,683,000us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		         268,683,000us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		 268,683,000us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		          
Fair value of equity interest                                     107,147,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		            
Total Consideration   1,694,687,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredIncludingEquityInterestInAcquireeHeldPriorToCombination1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		                                 1,694,687,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredIncludingEquityInterestInAcquireeHeldPriorToCombination1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		            
Fair value of W.P.Carey shares of common stock issued                                     1,380,362,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredEquityInterestsIssuedAndIssuable
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member		            
CPA: 15 - Global | Level 3 | Net operating income | Minimum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate   3.50%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member
/ us-gaap_RangeAxis
= us-gaap_MinimumMember
/ us-gaap_ValuationTechniqueAxis
= wpc_OperatingIncomeMember		                                              
CPA: 15 - Global | Level 3 | Net operating income | Maximum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate   14.75%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member
/ us-gaap_RangeAxis
= us-gaap_MaximumMember
/ us-gaap_ValuationTechniqueAxis
= wpc_OperatingIncomeMember		                                              
CPA: 15 - Global | Level 3 | Estimated residual value | Minimum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate   5.75%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member
/ us-gaap_RangeAxis
= us-gaap_MinimumMember
/ us-gaap_ValuationTechniqueAxis
= wpc_EstimatedResidualValueMember		                                              
CPA: 15 - Global | Level 3 | Estimated residual value | Maximum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate   12.50%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member
/ us-gaap_RangeAxis
= us-gaap_MaximumMember
/ us-gaap_ValuationTechniqueAxis
= wpc_EstimatedResidualValueMember		                                              
CPA: 15 - Global | Level 3 | Residual capitalization rates | Minimum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate   7.00%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member
/ us-gaap_RangeAxis
= us-gaap_MinimumMember
/ us-gaap_ValuationTechniqueAxis
= wpc_ResidualCapitalizationRatesMember		                                              
CPA: 15 - Global | Level 3 | Residual capitalization rates | Maximum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate   11.50%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member
/ us-gaap_RangeAxis
= us-gaap_MaximumMember
/ us-gaap_ValuationTechniqueAxis
= wpc_ResidualCapitalizationRatesMember		                                              
CPA: 15 - Global | Level 3 | Cash flows | Minimum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate   2.70%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member
/ us-gaap_RangeAxis
= us-gaap_MinimumMember
/ us-gaap_ValuationTechniqueAxis
= wpc_CashFlowsMember		                                              
CPA: 15 - Global | Level 3 | Cash flows | Maximum                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Discount rate   10.00%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis
= us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member
/ us-gaap_RangeAxis
= us-gaap_MaximumMember
/ us-gaap_ValuationTechniqueAxis
= wpc_CashFlowsMember		                                              
CPA: 15 - Global | Premium on Stock Price                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Goodwill   121,200,000us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ wpc_GoodwillAllocationAxis
= wpc_PremiumonStockPriceMember		                                              
CPA: 15 - Global | Market Value Fluctuation                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Goodwill   110,800,000us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ wpc_GoodwillAllocationAxis
= wpc_MarketValueFluctuationMember		                                              
Gain on change in control of interests   6,100,000wpc_GainOnChangeInControlOfInterests
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ wpc_GoodwillAllocationAxis
= wpc_MarketValueFluctuationMember		                                              
CPA: 15 - Global | Marcourt Investments Inc                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Equity method investment, ownership percentage                                               47.37%us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis
= wpc_MarcourtInvestmentsMember		  
Measurement period adjustment | CPA: 16 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Merger consideration                                           0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		      
Cash consideration                                           0us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		      
Non-recourse debt     0us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		                 0us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         0us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         0us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		      
Total identifiable net assets     5,845,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		                 5,845,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         5,845,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         5,845,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		      
Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interest     288,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		                 288,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         288,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         288,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		      
Goodwill     (2,330,000)us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		                 (2,330,000)us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         (2,330,000)us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         (2,330,000)us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		      
Gain on change in control of interests     1,300,000wpc_GainOnChangeInControlOfInterests
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		   1,300,000wpc_GainOnChangeInControlOfInterests
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		                                 2,600,000wpc_GainOnChangeInControlOfInterests
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		      
Fair value of equity interest     1,300,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		   1,300,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		                                 2,585,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		      
Total Consideration                                           3,227,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredIncludingEquityInterestInAcquireeHeldPriorToCombination1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		      
Noncontrolling interest, decrease from redemption or purchase of interest                               600,000us-gaap_MinorityInterestDecreaseFromRedemptions
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		                  
Fair value of noncontrolling interests acquired     (642,000)wpc_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		                 (642,000)wpc_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         (642,000)wpc_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         (642,000)wpc_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredandLiabilitiesAssumedNoncontrollingInterest
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		      
Fair value of W.P.Carey shares of common stock issued                                           0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredEquityInterestsIssuedAndIssuable
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		      
Measurement period adjustment | CPA: 15 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Total identifiable net assets                           5,600,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         5,600,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		 5,600,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		          
Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interest                           700,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         700,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		 700,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionOfLessThan100PercentNoncontrollingInterestFairValue
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		          
Goodwill                           (6,300,000)us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		         (6,300,000)us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		 (6,300,000)us-gaap_Goodwill
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember		          
Consolidated or partially leased investments | CPA: 16 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Number of real estate properties                               325us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= wpc_ConsolidatedOrPartiallyLeasedMember		                  
Weighted average lease term                               10 years 4 months 24 days                  
Triple-net lease, current minimum base rent receivable                               300,100,000wpc_TripleNetLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableCurrent
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= wpc_ConsolidatedOrPartiallyLeasedMember		                  
Mortgage loans on real estate, interest rate                               5.60%us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= wpc_ConsolidatedOrPartiallyLeasedMember		                  
Unconsolidated investments | CPA: 16 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Number of real estate properties                               140us-gaap_NumberOfRealEstateProperties
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember		                  
Weighted average lease term                               8 years 7 months 6 days                  
Triple-net lease, current minimum base rent receivable                               63,900,000wpc_TripleNetLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsReceivableCurrent
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember		                  
Non-recourse debt                               291,200,000us-gaap_SecuredDebt
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember		                  
Mortgage loans on real estate, interest rate                               4.80%us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateInterestRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember		                  
Number of consolidated investments (previously held by CPA 16)                               11wpc_NumberofConsolidatedInvestments
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember		                  
Number of investments consolidated after merger                               5wpc_NumberOfInvestmentsConsolidatedAfterMerger
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember		                  
Number of jointly owned investments with affiliate                               2wpc_NumberOfJointlyOwnedInvestmentsWithAffiliate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember		                  
Direct financing lease | CPA: 16 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Number of properties sold     1wpc_NumberOfPropertiesSold
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= wpc_DirectFinancingLeaseMember		                 1wpc_NumberOfPropertiesSold
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= wpc_DirectFinancingLeaseMember		         1wpc_NumberOfPropertiesSold
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= wpc_DirectFinancingLeaseMember		         1wpc_NumberOfPropertiesSold
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= wpc_DirectFinancingLeaseMember		      
Fixed interest rate | CPA: 15 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Loans outstanding, count   58wpc_LoansOutstandingCount
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanTypeAxis
= wpc_FixedInterestRateMember		                                              
Fixed interest rate | Consolidated or partially leased investments | CPA: 16 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Loans outstanding, count                               92wpc_LoansOutstandingCount
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= wpc_ConsolidatedOrPartiallyLeasedMember
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanTypeAxis
= wpc_FixedInterestRateMember		                  
Fixed interest rate | Unconsolidated investments | CPA: 16 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Loans outstanding, count                               17wpc_LoansOutstandingCount
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanTypeAxis
= wpc_FixedInterestRateMember		                  
Variable interest rate | CPA: 15 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Loans outstanding, count   9wpc_LoansOutstandingCount
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanTypeAxis
= wpc_VariableInterestRateMember		                                              
Variable interest rate | Consolidated or partially leased investments | CPA: 16 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Loans outstanding, count                               18wpc_LoansOutstandingCount
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= wpc_ConsolidatedOrPartiallyLeasedMember
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanTypeAxis
= wpc_VariableInterestRateMember		                  
Variable interest rate | Unconsolidated investments | CPA: 16 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Loans outstanding, count                               5wpc_LoansOutstandingCount
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis
= us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_MortgageLoansOnRealEstateLoanTypeAxis
= wpc_VariableInterestRateMember		                  
Previously Held Value in Entity | CPA: 16 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Gain on change in control of interests           73,100,000wpc_GainOnChangeInControlOfInterests
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_PreviouslyHeldValueinEntityMember		                                      
Number of jointly owned investments with affiliate                               12wpc_NumberOfJointlyOwnedInvestmentsWithAffiliate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_PreviouslyHeldValueinEntityMember		                  
Carrying value of noncontrolling interest acquired                               236,800,000wpc_CarryingValueOfNoncontrollingInterestinAcquiredEntity
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_PreviouslyHeldValueinEntityMember		                  
Previously Held Value in Entity | CPA: 15 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Gain on change in control of interests   14,700,000wpc_GainOnChangeInControlOfInterests
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_PreviouslyHeldValueinEntityMember		                                              
Fair value of equity interest   107,147,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_PreviouslyHeldValueinEntityMember		                                              
Number of shares owned   10,389,079wpc_NumberOfSharesOwned
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_PreviouslyHeldValueinEntityMember		                                              
Carrying value of W. P. Carey & Co. LLC equity interest in jointly-owned investments with CPA:15 prior to the CPA:15 Merger   92,400,000wpc_CarryingValueOfJointlyOwnedInvestmentsWithAcquiredEntityPriorToMerger
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_PreviouslyHeldValueinEntityMember		                                              
Other Jointly Owned Investments | CPA: 16 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Gain on change in control of interests                     30,200,000wpc_GainOnChangeInControlOfInterests
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_OtherJointlyOwnedInvestmentsMember		                            
Carrying value of equity investment in CPA pre merger                               142,500,000wpc_CarryingValueOfEquityInterestPreMerger
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_OtherJointlyOwnedInvestmentsMember		                  
Fair value of equity interest     172,720,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_OtherJointlyOwnedInvestmentsMember		                       172,720,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_OtherJointlyOwnedInvestmentsMember		 172,720,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_OtherJointlyOwnedInvestmentsMember		                  
Number of jointly owned investments with affiliate                               9wpc_NumberOfJointlyOwnedInvestmentsWithAffiliate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_OtherJointlyOwnedInvestmentsMember		                  
Discount rate                               5.00%us-gaap_FairValueInputsDiscountRate
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_OtherJointlyOwnedInvestmentsMember		                  
Other Jointly Owned Investments | CPA: 15 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Carrying value of equity investment in CPA pre merger   48,700,000wpc_CarryingValueOfEquityInterestPreMerger
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_OtherJointlyOwnedInvestmentsMember		                                              
Fair value of equity interest   54,822,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_OtherJointlyOwnedInvestmentsMember		                                 54,822,000us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa15Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_OtherJointlyOwnedInvestmentsMember		            
Other Jointly Owned Investments | Measurement period adjustment | CPA: 16 - Global                                                  
Merger Disclosure                                                  
Fair value of equity interest                                           $ 0us-gaap_BusinessCombinationStepAcquisitionEquityInterestInAcquireeFairValue1
/ us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis
= wpc_Cpa16Member
/ wpc_GainFromChangeInControllingInterestAxis
= wpc_OtherJointlyOwnedInvestmentsMember
/ us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis
= us-gaap_RestatementAdjustmentMember