How Property Owners and Tenants Can Keep Apartment Buildings Secure

• Secure all doors and windows

It’s a good idea to lock up your apartment, including doors and windows.

You may want to consider upgrading to deadbolts or other high security locks to ensure you’re extra safe.

If your landlord hasn’t already installed deadbolts in your apartment, be sure to ask them to do so.

• Use a peephole

This is the first step of a checklist to secure your home against unwanted guests.

Consider using a peephole on your front door to ensure that you get a clear visual of who you’re dealing with before unlocking the door.

• Don’t advertise your absence

When you’re away from home, it’s smart to keep your living room lights out and turn off any electronic devices so people don’t think you’re there.

• Get to know your neighbors

To improve the security of your apartment building, get to know your neighbors. You can extend this to businesses who operate around your building.

You’ll be more likely to notice suspicious activity, and you’ll also have an easier time reporting any problems to the authorities.

• Invest in outdoor lighting

Make sure the common areas of your apartment are well-lit

This will help prevent burglaries and make it easier for you to see who is coming and going.

If you don’t have adequate outdoor lighting, you can ask your landlord about installing some.

• Require tenant background checks

Everyone seems nice during the interview process. They promise they’ll keep the noise down, damage to a minimum, and pay the rent on time. Then, they transform into completely different people once they’re on your property and it’s much harder to get them out.

Let potential tenants know that a background check is a part of your screening process and get permission from them to conduct it. Those who don’t have anything to hide won’t mind and you’ll have greater peace of mind about who you’re renting to.

• Install security cameras

Security cameras can be an effective deterrent against break-ins and other crimes.

They can also help you identify any potential suspects if an incident does occur.

Just be sure to let your tenants know that cameras are being installed and where they are located.

• Replace old locks

Old locks can be easy to pick or break, so it’s a good idea to replace them with newer, more secure ones.

Deadbolts are a good choice, as they are more resistant to tampering.

You might also consider installing locks that can be opened with a keypad or a smart lock that can be controlled with a smartphone app.

Regularly check locks, hinges, and other security features to ensure they are in good working order

• Enforce a strict guest policy

It’s important to know who is coming and going from your apartment complex.

Consider implementing a strict guest policy that requires tenants to register their guests and provide identification.

This can help you keep track of who is on the premises and can also serve as a deterrent to potential burglars.