Learn Home Security Tips for Apartments
by Alex Cosper, December 5, 2014
Security is a top concern whether you're a homeowner or renter. While owning a home gives you more
control over your security, living in an apartment requires that you take extra precautions,
especially if it's not a gated complex and doesn't have security cameras or security patrol. Burglars
can sneak through gates and stake out apartments to learn tenant routines then make their moves when
the renter is away. Not all apartments use bolt locks. Taking extra home security precautions is
important for all apartment renters.
Considerations for a New Apartment
- Make sure the complex is well lit at night
- Look for broken windows, which attract burglars
- If the landscaping and buildings are not well maintained it indicates lack of concern by the landlord
- Observe apartment entrance features if they include keys, pass codes, buzzers and secured hallways
- Ask if a peephole can be installed on the door if there isn't one already
- Make sure window locks do not allow easy access to entering the apartment
- Be aware that fire escapes that connect with balconies can attract burglars
- Check to see if the apartment complex has home security cameras and alarms
- Ask people in the area if they consider it to be a safe neighborhood
Making Your Apartment More Secure
Even if you settle for an apartment that doesn't meet all your security needs due to economic reasons,
you can still take steps to make your apartment more secure. The first step should be to replace the
door locks so that you know for sure no one else has access to your apartment. Sometimes old keys are
not returned or managers simply rotate locks, which can make security uncertain. You may want extra
protection by installing a deadbolt and chain lock.
Sliding glass doors can be a problem if they do not slide properly. Taking the extra step of
installing an extra metal pin lock helps make the sliding door more secure. Consider covering sliding
doors and windows with blinds or other coverings that you can control from indoors. You should also
think about installing your own home security system if the apartment doesn't have one already. One of
the best deterrents from break-ins is a video surveillance system, which can help lower
insurance rates.
Protect Your Property with Renters Insurance
In the event your apartment is burglarized, you can at least protect the value of your property
with renters insurance. If your landlord doesn't have a policy that protects your apartment, look
for insurance companies that offer low cost policies that cover all stolen property at the full
replacement cost. It may also cover property loss in the event of fire or natural disasters.
Start a Neighborhood Watch Program
Even the best home security technology cannot match the effectiveness of a community of neighbors
looking after each other. That's why it helps to start a neighborhood watch program in your area.
You simply need to find a few other neighbors who are interested to start building a core that will
attract other neighbors to meetings.
Local police can give you tips on how to start the program and where to turn for additional resources.
A neighborhood watch program is not about taking the law into your own hands. It's about becoming
organized and alert to report suspicious activity in your neighborhood to police. Posting neighborhood
watch program signs in several locations of your neighborhood lets burglars know that they may be
under surveillance.
When You're Away From Home
Your apartment should be secure enough that you feel comfortable going on a vacation once in a
while or just being away in general while you're at work, shopping or visiting friends. Here are
some reminders for making sure your home more secure while you're away:
- Lock all windows and doors
- Leave a light on if you are away for one night, but not on an entire vacation
- Consider purchasing a light switch timer
- Keep your window blinds or curtains closed
- Do not allow mail or deliveries to stack up outside your door
- Avoid announcing on social media sites when you will be away
- Keep your most valuable items locked in a safe
- Do not leave a spare key under the matt
Monitoring Your Home with a Smartphone
The smartphone revolution has ushered in the era of apps that bring consumers a wide range of data
collection methods that never existed last century. Thanks to this modern technology you can now monitor
your home from any location anytime on your smartphone. Various apps can tell you a variety of information
about activity in your home involving room temperature, broken glass, alarms, smoke detectors and
even video monitoring.
One thing to be cautious of about smartphones, however, is that newer versions equipped with GPS
technology can be hacked by intruders who can then monitor your whereabouts. In order to avoid being
stalked by such criminals, be aware of the following tips involving your smartphone and social media
networks:
- Avoid posting "check in" pictures on Facebook while you are away; do it when you get home
- Smartphone pictures include embedded information about location and time
- Do not post plans on where you will be away from home; post highlights when you return
- Select 911 only for geolocating, if the option is available on your smartphone
- Turn off "share location" on all social media sites
- Consider a home security system with fast response time
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