As a renter, you do not get too many security options to add to your apartment. But it should not stop you from implementing easy security measures to keep yourself safe. To get the best security possible here are some of the tips you can use before and after moving into your next rented apartment.
Before Moving In…
1- Research Your Area
If you are moving into a new neighborhood it is important to research local crime data. Find out everything you can about your new home and check out the crime rates. You can also ask the locals about more information on how it is like to live in the area. The police and local business owners are your best bet for information.
Always stay away from areas which are prone to theft and burglaries. While you could have a good apartment security system set up in a shady neighborhood, it is best advised to move to a safe area even if it is farther from your place of work or family.
Pro Tips:
- Check online sites for crime data
- Find out crime rates in the neighborhood
- Avoid areas with high burglary and theft counts
2- Check Local Lighting
Areas that tend to be darker are prone to burglaries. Find out how good the lighting systems are in your building as well as your neighborhood.
Everything from hallways to parking lots should be well-lit where you live. A lot of modern buildings come with motion sensor lights that detect movement which are very effective at detecting unusual activity.
Pro Tips:
- Check the lighting in your neighborhood.
- Check hallways and parking lots for lighting.
- Do not settle into an apartment in a shady neighborhood.
3- Have a Secured Entrance
When it comes to security, the primary form of protection from break-ins is your entrance door. If you settle into a rented apartment make sure that you have a secure entrance.
In addition to your apartment, look for what security measures are in place to protect your building. Most buildings have security cameras as well as a security guard at the main entrance to stop intruders. If you do not have basic security measures available in your building, look for a different apartment.
At your main apartment entrance, you can install additional chain locks, keycodes or remote unlocking mechanisms for added front door security. You may need permission from your apartment owner to get additional locks installed so do ask before you make any changes to your apartment. It is recommended to have door alarms in place so you and your neighbors are notified in case of a break-in.
Pro Tips:
- Ask if you have dedicated security personnel available round the clock.
- Ask management to let you install additional locks on your door.
- Keep the security personnel’s contact handy in case of an emergency.
4- Check the Signs for Poor Maintenance
Before you move in you should consider doing some repairs to your apartment if you notice signs of leaky faucets, peeling paint and other minor annoyances. These are signs of the previous tenant being careless or the landlord not paying enough attention to the apartment. While these are minor inconveniences similar patterns may be seen in your apartment security as well.
You should evaluate the security of your apartment or complex by looking around for flaws in the security. If you notice any signs of poor maintenance like broken fences or broken security cameras, bring it up with your landlord immediately.
All apartments should have a proper burglar alarm system to prevent apartment burglary in all apartments. Security is likely to be laxer in apartments that do not have too many tenants.
Pro Tips:
- Check for main house entry safety protocols
- Check your door alarms and front door security.
- Test apartment alarm systems to ensure they are working.
5- Check Emergency Exits
A common entry point for burglars is to use the emergency exits for theft. Look at the building’s fire escape plans and emergency exit layouts to assess the security of your apartment. If your home is easily accessible via the emergency exit consider taking extra security precautions.
In addition to safety from burglars and thieves, you should also consider personal safety in case of emergency situations. Check if all the smoke detectors are functioning and there are safety measures like fire extinguishers and other important tools to deal with hazards. Fire safety ladders and other equipment should not be easily accessible to potential burglars else a break-in will be made easy.
Pro Tips:
- Check smoke/fire detectors.
- Plan your security based on your emergency exit layout.
- Take extra precautions if you are living on the ground floor.
After Moving In…
6- Secure Your Windows
Your front door is not the only entrance to your apartment. Make sure that you have a proper window lock for each of your windows as well. Make use of locks that are secure and easy-to-use.
If you are living in the ground floor we recommend taking even more precautions as it is very easy to breach into such apartments. If you do not have reinforced glass windows, consider getting additional window protection films to secure your apartment.
Pro Tips:
- Install safety locks on your windows
- Apply reinforced glass protectors
- Use tinted protectors for privacy.
7- Protect Your Garage
If you get a separate garage with your apartment it is important to keep your vehicle and other belongings safe as well in the garage. For starters you should get a garage door safety sensor that detects any break-ins into your garage. Get additional locks that protect your garage from inside and outside.
If your garage has a digital lock, ask your security personnel to frequently change the code. You can also install security cameras inside the garage to monitor any unusual activity.
Pro Tips:
- Install a window lock for each garage window you have.
- Do not keep expensive belongings in your garage.
- Install a burglar alarm in your garage for added protection.
8- Personal Security Tools
If you want an added layer of protection for yourself and your belongings, we recommend getting an all-in-one security system to keep yourself safe. Mimic GO™ is one of the smartest security companion tools that can connect to your existing devices like Amazon Alexa speakers, security cameras and more.
You can secure any part of your home with the press of a button. From your garage door to your apartment, having a portable tool that connects all of your security devices in a centralized hub makes life very convenient. Whenever there is a break-in you get notified on your phone and also triggers the alarms to dissuade burglars. It is one of the best security systems you can monitor from your home and is the only one of its kind.
Pro Tips:
- Connect your Mimic GO™ with all your security devices.
- Setup reminder features and area protection for added security.
- Connect it to your home automation system for alerts.
9- Renter’s Insurance
There are insurance providers who cover the expenses of renters caused by theft. Considering the fact that no matter how many precautions you take, you may still face unfortunate circumstances, it is best advised to keep yourself secured.
Renter’s insurance is mostly affordable and you can recover a major portion of your losses in case you lose personal property to a disaster or a burglary. Always read the terms and conditions properly and understand the process of recovering your investment.
Do note that your car when using a rented garage does not fall under your home insurance and will be dealt with by your car insurance service.
Pro Tips:
- Consider multiple options and consider insurance cost-effectiveness.
- Opt for an insurance plan that covers everything you own.
- Check feedback online on your service provider for an unbiased review.
10- Invest in a Safe
If you are going to be away from your apartment a lot, you should consider keeping all of your belongings in a safe. A lot of the time it is guests and visitors who notice expensive belongings and report it to burglars.
If you have people coming into your apartment, we recommend hiding your expensive belongings in a safe. Cash, jewelry and important documents should be kept in a safe. If you own a firearm, keep it hidden somewhere only you can access.
Pro Tips:
- Invest in a safe with a built-in alarm.
- Keep your safe hidden from plain sight.
- Do not let visitors notice your valuable belongings.
Final Words
Moving into a new apartment can be a daunting experience if you do not have the right security. Always research well before moving into a new home and never show off your valuables to guests as it can put you at risk. Do frequent security audits to ensure your security setup is working as intended. Avoid renting apartments in neighborhoods with a high crime rate. And most importantly, you can always inform the cops if you are moving out of your apartment for a few days for added security.