Security in your apartment or home should be a top priority. When it comes to ensuring safety in an apartment building or complex, a combination of residential and commercial security is essential for ensuring everyone is safe. Each renter should take responsibility for keeping their place of residence locked and secured from unwanted visitors. Additionally, landlords and owners of the property must make certain that the rental grounds, outdoor spaces, and common areas are safe.
Here are a few suggestions to make your apartment or rental property more secure.
One straightforward way renters can increase their apartment security is by adding additional locks to their front door as well as any other remaining entry doors in the apartment. Most apartments come with a combination of locks, such as a deadbolt, knob lock, and cam locks. However, if occupants are looking for more advanced security measures, consider also investing in new or updated locks. For example, a renter may want to add a swing fastener or upgrade their current deadbolt to a smart lock. Door jammers are also useful security solutions for increasing additional security for apartment dwellers. This handy tool prevents a door from being broken into and they essentially act like a heavy-duty doorstop. Most are portable, so you can take them with you when moving or traveling. Door jammers are also a great addition to protecting a sliding door on a balcony or back patio. Before you leave for the day make sure to close the blinds. Also consider not leaving valuable items where potential thieves can see them.
Despite all the safety precautions renters may take, unfortunate robberies could still happen. That being said, it may be a good idea to purchase renter’s insurance for your apartment. This type of insurance will cover personal belongings such as electronics and furniture. It will also cover damage of a natural disaster or stolen items from a burglary. Many renters’ insurance policies also cover theft if your vehicle has been broken into, as long as the vehicle was parked at the place of coverage. With the average cost of renters insurance being around $15 a month it might be worth doing some research.
Tenants rely on their landlords to keep the property as safe as possible. For increased protection, landlords should install security cameras at the entrances of the property as well as in stairwells, hallways, and the parking lot. Sufficient interior and exterior lighting in these areas will also make renters feel safer.
Landlords may also want to consider hiring personnel to monitor the premises. This could range from a part-time guard working on an unpredictable schedule; to an off-duty law enforcement officer who offers security services. More ideal is a standing guard service that provides protection around-the-clock. Hiring security personnel is vital for landlords who have a range of properties.
Check out the infographic below for more tips and information to secure your apartment or rental property.
