Home security is a key cause for worry, especially when living in apartments where you have no control of who can live or enter there. Although there isn’t much you can do to beef up security, put some measures to ensure your belongings and your loved ones are safe. Here are apartment safety tips for renters.
1. Get renters insurance
Even though the complex you live in is insured, your personal belongings such as electronics and furniture aren’t covered. Getting renters insurance will protect your belongings against any unfortunate events that may arise.
2. Rent an apartment in a secure neighborhood
Before settling for an apartment to rent, research how safe your preferred neighborhood is, and don’t leave out bordering neighborhoods as chances of crime spilling over are very high. You may also want to talk to residents or check online to see the neighborhood’s crime rate. Even though there cannot be 100% crime-free areas, going to localities with fewer criminal activities gives you a sense of security.
Additionally, if you want to move to a calm and quiet area, take note of other apartments and businesses within the vicinity and visit the location at different times of the day to check noise pollution.
3. Use smart home technology
The burglary rates in most U.S states are alarming, and you should implement burglary-proof technology to monitor and track your rental unit to lower break-ins. Installing sensors on your doors and windows sends an alarm to your smart device whenever someone uses the entry points. Upgrade your locks to automated ones and control them from your smart device. Besides burglary, gas, fire, and floods can cause severe damage. Installing smart smoke and carbon monoxide sensors sends notifications to smart devices in case of triggers. You may also add flood detectors to notify you whenever there is a flood threat.
4. Replace door locks
If your landlord doesn’t have your locks rekeyed or replaced, take it upon yourself to replace the door locks but seek confirmation before doing so. This is especially important if there was a previous tenant. To be on the safe side, handle the locks issue before signing the rental agreement. You may also consider installing deadbolts on your doors to boost security.
5. Ensure there’s good lighting
Burglaries are less likely to occur in well-lit areas. Ensure sufficient lighting in critical areas such as parking areas, entrances, stairways, hallways, yards, and elevators. This helps keep intruders at bay. Additionally, you can protect your home against burglaries by using automatic lights and setting them to turn on and off at intervals to make it seem like you’re home even when you’re not.
6. Look out for emergency exit routes
Emergency exit routes make it easy for renters to escape in case of unforeseen dangers. They also provide a safe and straightforward way for the police and fire brigade to evacuate a building when disaster happens. Where these routes aren’t marked, confirm with the landlord as they’re lifesavers whenever calamities occur.
Endnote
As much as there isn’t much you can do to improve the security of a complex building, do whatever you can to ensure your safety and security. These tips will help you reinforce safety in your rented apartment.
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