Apartment Security Tips
Security for your rental property is an investment, but one that will be beneficial in the long run. Identifying and addressing any security issues will help give both you and your tenants peace of mind. Let’s explore some of the many options to help you secure your rental space which will help you to become a successful landlord.
Install A Security System
A security system can not only help you feel more secure, but your tenants as well. Install surveillance cameras near all entry points and allow them to see a wide range of the property. Make sure to respect your tenant’s privacy and their rights, letting them know of the cameras ahead of time and making them aware of these additions. If you have the money, you can also add door sensors and motion detectors to sense if there are any intruders. While there are many options for security systems, they can get costly. However, this is a long-term investment and will help increase appeal.
Secure All Entrances
A lot of properties have multiple ways to enter, so make sure they are all secure. Install high quality deadbolt locks on your exterior doors to help protect your residents. If you can afford them, look into getting smart locks. These will allow you to monitor their use from your own home and control them in case of an emergency. You can also invest in key fobs or access cards depending on what you prefer. If the tenant feels as though the doors are still not secure enough, consider adding additional locks. Also, make sure the front door has a peephole so residents can see who is there and leave it closed if that individual looks aggressive or suspicious.
If your property has a sliding door, reinforce it with latches and track rods. With these, intruders will not be able to open the door, keeping your tenant and their belongings safe.
In terms of the windows, ensure they have strong locks to prevent unauthorized access to the property. Swapping them out with laminated glass adds additional protection as it is strong and won’t break into tiny pieces as easily. If the windows provide an unobstructed view into the home add security film to add more privacy.
Make Sure the Area Is Well Lit
Areas that are well-lit, especially at night, will significantly help prevent any unnecessary occurrences throughout the night. This includes entryways, parking lots, driveways, back porches and more. Adding motion-activated lighting can help detect any unwanted presence. You can also install emergency lighting in case of any emergencies.
Conduct Regular Inspections
You’ll want to make sure that all these features are in working order, so stop by the residence for routine inspections. During this time, you can discover any issues and address them immediately with repairs. Your tenant can also mention these along with any security vulnerabilities they may have discovered. Either way, we want all these things to be functioning properly.
Create an Emergency Plan
In case any emergencies arrive, prep your tenants with a plan. Give them a piece of contact information that they can reach you at if things are urgent. As well, provide them with evacuation plans and things to do in case of any peril, natural disasters or other scenarios.
How To Secure a Vacant Property
If you have a vacant property, you don’t want to make it too obvious. Along with the safety measures mentioned above, make the property look active by using timers to turn on lights and appliances. Also, keep the lawn and foliage well maintained. This will help greatly reduce the potential crime in that area.
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