Homeowners are not the only ones who should take advantage of home security systems. Even when you have rented an apartment, you should also enjoy the benefits that come with it.
Everyone needs a sense of safety and a locksmith will help you gain this. At the most basic level, checking your locks and current security system are in working condition is the first step.
If you are not the homeowner, such as when you are renting, making safety modifications may not always be straightforward. But there are various ways you can enhance security as outlined below.
Renting? Talk to The Landlord or Agent
Most landlords have restrictions on the modifications that can be done on their premises. This can limit you as the renter from making changes without first seeking approval.
One thing to do is ask either your property managing agent or the landlord directly (if possible) what kind of modifications are allowed.
For example you may ask, if you can replace the locks on the doors or the windows? What kind of security system is allowed?
With an idea of what you can do and cannot do, it will be easy to contact a locksmith with your requirements. The landlord may even fit the bill as you will be increasing the security of their property.
Check Whether Locks Should Be Changed
It is advisable that when a new tenant is moving in, the locks should be changed or rekeyed. This goes without saying and a good landlord should allow you to do this.
This is paramount if you are to be safe in your apartment. The reason is, you are not sure where all the keys are. A person with ill intentions could gain access and you have no idea what they are capable of.
If you are allowed to install your own locks, choose an experienced locksmith. Someone who is knowledgeable about the local crime rates and how to protect against them.
With doors and windows being the most vulnerable, these are the first areas to secure. Enhance the locks already there or replace them.
Sliding window locks, wedges, and burglar bars are some of the options you have. The ones you choose will depend on the design of the casement.
For doors, you can choose from knob locks, deadbolts, cylindrical lever locks and mortise locks. Also, smart and electronic locks will be ideal.
Locks are an excellent way to keep the possible entry points locked. Once they have been installed, you need to make use of them. Make sure they are always locked when no one is in the house.
Consider Security Bars
If it has been hard getting to fix your preferred security system, use security bars. Besides the security they offer, there are no major adjustments that should be done.
They offer security that you can rely on. They keep the door in place and make it a challenge for someone to gain entry.
The bars are not permanent and thus you can carry them to your next apartment.
Install A Security System
Sophisticated security structures will require major modifications of the premises. Do not despair as with a reputable locksmith, you can find one suited for your apartment.
Even with the constraints that the landlord has put, they can still be accommodated. Many wireless systems only take a few minutes to set up and there will be no wiring or drilling.
Choose one with surveillance cameras and remote monitoring. It means you can control and monitor your apartment using a smartphone. Just ensure that it meets your expectations.
Use Door Stop and Glass Break Alarms
These are ideal in deterring intruders. The good thing is that you do not pay any security company to monitor it.
They have features such as arming or disarming the system. It can be disarmed when someone is home.
Another advantage is there will be no need for a locksmith to do the installation. It is a DIY that is also easy to utilize.
One thing though is a must recall is that these systems are best with alerts and not calling the authorities. However, the alarm is scary enough to keep an intruder away.
Create A Sense of Enhanced Security
Perhaps, you are not in a position to enhance the security of your apartment as much as you would like. In such a case, do the best that you can and also create a sense of enhanced security.
For example, you can have dummy cameras installed. Also, get security stickers on your doors and windows.
This is perfect in dissuading them as they cannot really tell that the house is not protected.
It is also easy to create an illusion that there is someone at home even when there is no one. Thanks to technology, there are varieties of mechanical outlet timers.
The advantage of this technology is that it is set to turn on appliances and lights in the house. For example, when it gets to 1800hrs, it turns on the Television, music, and lights.
Keep in Mind
Keep in mind that it is paramount to understand the local crime scene. Location of the apartment matters a lot and is a determinant on the security options you have.
Neighbors, security guards, and local investors are a good source of such information. Depending on what your research finds you may also consider renter’s insurance.
This allows you to cover your valuables including electronics, jewelry, furniture, and sabotage. If the unfortunate happens, you have someone to take care of the expenses.
Replacing lost items will not be much of a challenge when you are covered. In case an individual is injured, the liabilities and medical expenses are covered.
Final Words
Just because you live in an apartment does not mean that you cannot enhance your security. Even when it is situated in a relatively safe area, do something to heighten your safety.
Get an apartment-friendly security system, install quality locks on windows and doors, and use security bars. It can be confusing comparing choices and choosing the most ideal.
In this case, talk to a tradesman for guidance. There are numerous options for enhancing security in apartments.
