SECURITY TIPS FOR APARTMENT RENTERS

Name: Davis Management Group, LLC
Address: 6500 24th Ave NW, Seattle, WA, US
Telephone: 206-999-3023

February 16, 2022 0 comment

Written by: Eric Davis

Living in an apartment presents obstacles to creating a secure home. But it should not prevent you from improving the security measures to keep yourself safe. You’ve invested your time, energy, and care into changing your apartment into an amazing place that’s especially yours. However, setting up your apartment isn’t just hanging up pictures and staging your rooms – you must also consider safety and security. Leasing an apartment has its benefits, but from a security perspective, renting also has disadvantages: apartment renters are substantially more prone to be the targets of break-ins than homeowners.

A photo sample of home security tools.

National Crime Prevention Council^[1] indicated that apartments are more likely to be burglarized than rental properties or single-family homeowners. Although each property manager ought to give the best security to their occupants, you shouldn’t sit tight for somebody like a landowner to deal with these issues for you. As a tenant, you have restricted choices for adding security but maintaining your place protected is possible even without spending a lot of resources. Below are some safety recommendations for apartments that can provide you peace of mind whether you’re at home or not.

Before Moving In

Neighborhood and Crime Statistics

Studying the neighborhood is an essential factor in selecting your new home. While the Fair Housing Act^[2] holds your property manager back from the crime percentage with you, the local authority can give you a few insights concerning crimes in the community or complex/building. You can explore and talk with current tenants regarding any security concerns. People will more often than not open up about security details in the neighborhood. You can research local crime statistics on different websites that will help you check crime data, including CrimeReports, SpotCrime, Real Estate City Profile, Neighborhood Scout, or AreaVibes.

Security Features

All apartments should have a proper security system to avoid apartment burglary. The first line of protection in apartment protection is the entrance.

Examine door alarms and front door security is working
Inspect the lighting in the hallways, parking lots, and your neighborhood
Check if entrance security is tight
Verify for emergency exits
Confirm smoke/fire detectors are working

Appearances Matter

By simply looking at an area, you can tell if it’s secured or not. Before moving in, consider fixing the apartment if you notice issues in plumbing, stripping paint, and other minor maintenance problems. Those are indications that the past tenant is careless or the property manager does not care about the apartment. Though these are simple concerns, it might be the case in apartment security. If the property you’re viewing is not properly maintained, this should be one point less in deciding. One more thing to consider is the difference in the area during the night and the day. The complex should be sufficiently lit so the apartment can be effortlessly seen and possible thieves will not be comfortable. A good apartment security system setup does not guarantee safety, and it’s still best to move into a safe place regardless of its distance to your workplace or family. Before moving in, always do your research, and keep your valuables from prying eyes to minimize the risk.

After Moving In

Neighborhood

Getting acquainted with your neighbors is a security advantage. The more people you know in an apartment, the more eyes you have watching your back. This way, when you are not around, your neighbors can report any suspicious activity. You and your neighbor can also team up in enhancing the safety measures throughout the building.

An image showing a good relationship between neighbors.

Security

If you see any signs of poor maintenance like broken fences or broken security cameras, immediately bring it up with your landlord. Aside from safety from burglars and thieves, it would be best to consider personal protection in emergencies. It is recommended to have door alarms so you and your neighbors are notified in case of a break-in. Having a security system in place can also get you lower rates on your renters’ insurance.

Additional tips,

Emergency exit layout is important in getting your safety plan ahead.
Get a system that monitors your place, and If this doesn’t give you peace of mind, there are alarm systems that alert you if there’s an intruder.
Know if there are security personnel available round the clock.
Keep their contact handy in case of an emergency.

Doors and Windows Lock

Most robberies happen because of negligence. Doors and windows usually are forgotten to be locked up. Try upgrading your home locks; there are many options to choose from. Pick-resistant and bump-proof locks are available nowadays on the market. Another simple yet useful way to keep your electronics and valuables protected is to keep your blinds and curtains closed — this prevents others from sneaking.

Install extra chain locks, keycodes, or remote unlocking mechanisms for added door security.

Invest in good quality blinds/curtains

Safety Deposit Box & Safes

Safe and safety deposit boxes are the final line of defense against thieves and natural disasters, so be certain to invest in a safe with built-in security and fireproof. Money, important papers, and jewels can be stored and kept. You’ll have them close by, yet not defenseless against robbery or harm.

An example of a protected safe box.

Renters Insurance

Renter insurance protects your property from thieves and burglars. Your assets may not amount to much but replacing them still is troublesome. It also covers extra costs in case of a move-out due to insured loss. The insurance is accessible and moderately cheap. Make sure to read the agreement and conditions properly to comprehend the process of recovering your investment.

Wherever you live, staying safe is essential, and so is protecting your valuables. Safety always comes first. Whatever system you prefer, the important thing is that you take steps to secure and protect your apartment. Real apartment security is not about flashy locks or luxurious security systems. It is the small things that make a big difference.

Follow these simple safety recommendations to keep your apartment secure. Do not hesitate to call the local authority if you feel something is off. For additional advice regarding apartment security, contact Davis Property Management at 425-658-7471/206-999-3023 or send us an email at info@davisproeprtymanagement.com.

Links and Video References:

DIY Security Tips