When you’re renting a home or an apartment, security will no doubt be one of your primary concerns. Most renters will take some time to suss out the area, have a look around the neighbouring streets and decide whether they would feel comfortable living there from a security standpoint. While homeowners can take a lot of steps to make their home secure, renters have some additional things to deal with.
A rented property can often be known in the area, making it a potential target for criminals. Due to the turnover of people who have lived there over the years, there may be more front door keys floating around than you realise and burglars in the area may be aware of the layout of the property. In addition, they may also be aware of security features already in place, such as security doors at the entrance of the building or an alarm system that was previously installed but is no longer working. However, don’t worry, you can still take steps to ensure that your rented property is a safe and secure place to live.
Let’s take a look at some simple ways that renters can tighten up security at their new home so that it is comfortable and really feels like home.
Get to know your landlord
When renting a property, it’s always a good idea to get to know your landlord so you can both have an open line of communication should anything happen in terms of security concerns. Make sure that you get their phone number and add them to your Whatsapp to make communication seamless. You may also want to get their email so that you can have another open line of communication.
Safety concerns and property damages can often go hand in hand and unfortunately, the renter can sometimes be held accountable. Aside from concerns relating to personal accountability, you may also need to speak with your landlord before making any changes to your flat to boost security.
Choose an alarm system
In this day and age, installing an alarm system should be a no-brainer. When burglars see that an alarm system is installed, they are much more likely to not bother breaking in as they don’t want to draw attention to what they are doing.
If your landlord doesn’t already have an alarm system installed, you will most likely need to check with them first before starting the installation. Once you’ve gotten the OK from your landlord, find an alarm system that will work well in the property. You might be able to get the landlord to pay for the alarm installation as it will benefit them going forward as they will have it for the next tenant and it might even help to lower their insurance bill. Alternatively, see if they might be open to splitting the bill or contributing something towards the installation.
Secure your windows
Windows are a popular entry point for burglars and it’s important that you secure your windows properly. Depending on your window types, there are a range of different options available with different colours and styles to match your home’s interior. Many of these window locks can be found at most hardware stores. You should also be sure to keep any tall plants, decorations or artwork away from your window as this makes it easy for burglars to hide and go unnoticed.
Replace your door locks
As mentioned previously, you are not the first person to live at this home, so you can be sure that the key you have in your possession is not the only copy. Of course, the previous tenant may have changed the locks too but even if they did you have no way of knowing that they secured all of the keys before leaving. Be sure to check with your landlord before replacing the locks but for renters, this is an important step to making your new home security. You will have much more peace of mind sitting inside at night knowing that you’re the only one with a key to the door.
Make your new home safe and secure
When moving into a new place, even if it is only temporary, it’s important that you take measures to ensure your new home is safe and secure. As a renter, you don’t always know the full history of the place or who the previous tenants were and this can be worrying when you first move in. Consider installing an alarm system to keep the place protected when you’re not home and updating your locks and securing your windows will give you peace of mind. Your new home won’t feel like a home until you feel safe inside so be sure to make it secure right from the start.