It’s always exciting and fun to move into a new apartment. But before moving into a place, there are specific steps that the tenant should take to ensure their own security and safety.
This article highlights the essential safety tips that can help new renters ensure all-around protection of their apartments. Some security and safety issues can be fixed quickly, but the apartment staff or landlord needs to be adequately addressed.
Have a look at practical apartment safety tips. Meanwhile, if you are a tenant looking for insurance, visit Surex for further information on renters insurance.
1. Add Blinds To The Space
A well-designed apartment always has windows as they provide a great view of the exteriors to the residents. But allowing outsiders to get a view of your apartment’s interiors enhances the chances of theft or burglary.
The burglars may spend time to stake out the target. With easy access to the interior view, they can easily watch, take note of the valuables, and plan everything. Hence, when you are away, make sure to cover the windows using blinds.
2. Lock The Windows And Front Door
Make optimal use of the windows and door locks. Before leaving the apartment, don’t forget to lock all windows and the front door. Make efficient use of the deadbolt. It should reach an inch from the door frame’s strike plate. Use stainless steel screws for fortifying the strike plate.
3. Check The Working Of Locks And Windows
Both windows and locks should close fully. The window locks should be sturdy and efficient enough to keep intruders away from your apartment. They shouldn’t be able to break into your home.
Windows are potential access points for burglaries. Hence, make sure all the locks are in proper condition and can’t be manipulated using any tool.
4. Make Sure The Parking Area Has Security Cameras
Almost all apartment complexes include a designated area for parking. Take a tour of the complex and make sure there are security cameras. Ideally, cameras should be located in the parking decks and parking lots at the exits and entrances. The perpetrators are likely to exit and enter in the same way used by the residents.
If there is a parking garage in the complex, make sure its pedestrian and gated doors are highly secured. Generally, vehicle break-ins occur in parking garages of apartment complexes. Therefore, take some time to inspect your apartment premises’ parking area.
5. Watch The Exits And Entrances Of The Common Areas
Typical areas like the workout area, pool, laundry facility, and storage rooms should be accessible only to the residents. Take a tour of the apartment before signing the lease. Check the common areas and the existing/entrances points.
Ensure there is only accessibility with a fob, card, or key. If you have any concerns, speak to your property manager or landlord regarding the apartment’s security and common areas.
6. Fire Escapes Are Key For Apartment Fire Safety
Fire escapes in an apartment complex are lifesavers, especially in times of an emergency. However, they provide quick access to doors and windows for any intruders. If the apartment includes a fire escape, it should be appropriately stored off the ground for maximum safety.
7. Ensure Good Lighting In Your Apartment And Surrounding Areas
Laundry rooms, entrances, walkways, hallways, elevators, parking areas, mail areas, and stairways should have good lighting during the night as well as day. It’s best to discuss the lighting with your landlord for light installation (if needed). Burglars and thieves avoid making well-lit areas their target.
LED lights are considered the most preferred source of light for deterring crimes. Light sources presenting a bronze or gold hue are counted as HPS lights. They create color as well as distort hues. LED lighting is one of the ideal forms of lighting that doesn’t create shadows.
8. Sliding Glass Doors Should Have Strong Locks
Often sliding glass doors of an apartment have weak locks. Hence, when you walk through the apartment, invest an adequate amount of time checking the glass door. Generally, these doors require extra reinforcement. Check the sliding glass door and ensure it lifts off the track quickly. There shouldn’t be any extra space.
9. Know About Your Neighbors
You should have some information about the people residing next to you. It is advantageous for several reasons. First, a healthy relationship with the neighbors means they can help you with the security concerns, especially when you’re away or if there are reports of suspicious activities.
Besides, all the safety precautions and unfortunate events could still take place. Renters insurance could prove to be your savior in such a case. The insurance covers personal property such as clothing, electronics, furniture, and other items you could lose in a disaster or burglary.
10. Avoid Storing Valuable Items In The Balcony Area
The balcony is easily accessible to outsiders both visually and otherwise. Hence, it is advised not to use the balcony for storing valuable items such as a bicycle. In addition, the balconies of the lower floor are more vulnerable to theft.
If there is a shortage of space in your apartment and you are compelled to keep the items on your balcony, then make sure it’s completely secure and locked up.
The optimal security of the apartment is essential. Individuals living in an apartment which a property manager or landlord owns may assume that the security of the building may be taken care of already. But there is no harm in taking additional measures when it comes to apartment safety.
Endnote
If your apartment manager or landlord refuses necessary safety repairs, you may be able to get the repairs done on your own and deduct the amount from the following payment cycle of the rent. Consider the repairs only if the apartment manager or landlord refuses to issue rectification. However, you need to make sure your province and rental agreement support costs deducted from the rent. Keep records of the repair requests in writing and receipt of the repair cost.
