If you’re a renter, it’s important to make sure that your home is as safe as possible. There are many things you can do to protect yourself and your personal property, and we’ve put together a list of the best apartment security tips for apartment renters. Follow these tips and you’ll be able to rest easy knowing that your home is safe!
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Start With A Secure Apartment Building
When choosing a new rental property, be sure to ask about the security measures that are in place and take the time to consider your own safety and security needs.
Many renters don’t take their personal safety into account when checking out apartment listings. With just a little bit of research, you can find an apartment that will give you the peace of mind you need. And that will help you sleep soundly at night.
Lighting
Well-lit areas are important for security because they make it more difficult for an intruder to conceal themselves.
Additionally, good lighting allows people to see potential threats and take action to protect themselves.
- A well-lit entrance and lobby can help make you feel more secure when coming home at night.
- Well-lit common areas, including the laundry rooms, storage rooms, and parking areas will make you feel safer walking around your building after dark.
Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting is one of the most important aspects of apartment security. Not only does it reduce the risk of break-ins, but it also makes it easier for residents to see what’s going on outside.
Check if your potential apartment complex is bright enough to illuminate the entire area around your building. It also needs to be mounted high enough so that it can’t be easily reached or damaged.
Security Cameras
Security cameras in common areas, including the parking area, are an important feature for apartment safety. They help to deter crime and keep residents safe. Your property manager will be able to tell you about the security systems in place in your potential new apartment.
Sturdy Apartment Door Lock
When you’re looking for an apartment, be sure to check the locks on the doors. A sturdy lock and chain lock on your front door can help deter criminals and keep you and your belongings safe.
So when you’re touring apartments, be sure to ask the property manager about the locks on the doors.
Balcony Door Lock
Sliding glass doors are typically easier to break into, so it’s important to inspect the lock to make sure it’s secure. Consider a floor-level double-cylinder deadbolt.
Locks On All Windows
Working window locks are a great way to secure your home and ensure that no one can get in without your permission. While they may seem like an extra hassle, they are well worth the peace of mind they provide.
An Intercom System
Intercoms can be very useful in apartment security because they allow you to communicate with people outside of your apartment without having to open the door. This can be helpful if you are not expecting anyone or if you are not feeling well and do not want to answer the door.
Is There A Fire Escape?
Another important security feature to look for in an apartment is a fire escape. In the event of a fire, it’s important to have a safe and easy way to exit your building.
Motion detectors with lights near the fire escape can deter would-be intruders and give you some extra peace of mind.
Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors are important for apartment security because they can detect a fire before it becomes too large. This can give residents time to evacuate the building and avoid any potential injuries. Additionally, smoke detectors can also help firefighters locate the source of a fire more quickly, which can help minimize the damage caused by the fire.
How Do I Protect Myself From Intruders In My Apartment?
Enjoy your life, but you also need to make sure that you are taking the necessary precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe. This means keeping easy security measures in mind on a daily basis and taking action to protect yourself.
We’ve got some simple tips for you. They can become automatic strategies that won’t intrude on your life but will help keep you safe. You can be happy and safe at the same time!
Keep Your Doors Locked
One of the simplest and most important things you can do to protect your apartment and keep yourself safe is to keep your doors locked. You could also invest in a good-quality deadbolt for your door. Make sure all doors and windows are locked before leaving home or going to bed.
Lockable Windows
Windows should close and lock properly to ensure security and privacy. If a window does not close all the way, it can leave the home vulnerable to theft or burglary. If a window doesn’t lock, it can leave the home susceptible to intruders. If you have windows that are easy to reach, consider installing bars or grates over them for an extra layer of protection.
Close Your Blinds
Closing your blinds can also provide security for your home. By closing your blinds, you are preventing anyone from looking into your home and seeing what is inside. This can help to protect your belongings and privacy. It is important to close your blinds during the day, especially when you are not home.
Don’t Tempt Opportunistic Thieves
Keep your valuables out of sight and in a safe place. If you have expensive jewelry or electronics or valuable papers, it’s best to keep them hidden away so that they’re not an easy target for potential burglars.
This includes your balcony. If the interior of your balcony can be seen from outside the building, don’t attract attention by leaving valuable items like your bike on the balcony.
Leave A Radio On
Leaving a radio on can also provide security for your home. By leaving a radio on, you are creating noise that will deter intruders. They won’t be sure if someone is home, so they’ll move on to the next place.
Sensor Lights
Sensor lights can be a great security addition to your home. They provide light when it is dark, which can help to deter intruders. Place sensor lights in key areas of your home, such as near the front and back doors. You can also place them in other areas, such as around your windows.
Use A Timer Switch
Timer switches can be a great way to provide security for your apartment. Use a timer switch to turn on a light and a radio or music in your apartment every evening. This will create the appearance that someone is home, which will deter intruders.
Your Neighbors
Get to know your neighbors. Building a good relationship with the people who live around you can help to create a sense of community and make it more likely that someone will be there to help if you need it.
Stay Alert
Be aware of your surroundings and what is going on in your neighborhood. If you notice anything suspicious, report it to the police or your landlord immediately.
Stay Safe Online
Be careful about what you share on social media and make sure your computer and mobile devices are password protected.
Don’t share too much online because you might inadvertently give away clues about your whereabouts or when you will be out of town. If a criminal knows that you will be away from your home for a certain period of time, they may see your absence as an opportunity to break in and steal your belongings.
Also, if you regularly post photos or check-ins from locations that are not your home, criminals may be able to deduce your address and target your apartment.
How Do I Feel Safer In My First-Floor Apartment?
In addition to the tips listed above, some ways to feel safer in a ground-floor apartment are to install a security system or alarm, keep the doors and windows locked, and have a dog or another form of protection.
There are some other things you can do for home security, like adding additional locks to doors and windows or installing security cameras. You can also get to know your neighbors and build a community watch.
Window grates, a security screen door and window sensors in addition to your apartment locks are also ideas worth considering.
No matter what precautions you take, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Be sure to stay safe out there and enjoy your new place!
Conclusion
If you follow these tips, you’ll be well on your way to keeping your apartment safe and secure. Remember to relax and appreciate apartment living. Security is not your whole life, it’s just an essential inbuilt part of it.