Apartment complexes are often the option for first-time renters or buyers because of their multitude of security options. Often, apartments have gates or require visitors and residents to buzz in at a lobby before gaining access to a specific apartment. The problem is that just because something has an illusion of security on the outside doesn’t mean you should necessarily trust it going in.
You should always be vigilant when it comes to your security and your safety. There is never a need to be less than smart when it comes to feeling secure. From speaking to the building manager about condo parking control to asking about security cameras in the parking lots and stairwells, there is much that you need to learn about living safely in an apartment building. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some safety tips that will help you to feel more comfortable and secure where you are living.
- Always keep your doors locked. They may be rare, But apartments can still be broken into. You can eliminate the opportunity for people to break into your home by ensuring that your doors and windows remain locked and deadbolted at all times, even if you are in the property. If you have a landlord and they allow it, make sure that you install new exterior locks when you move in. This means that former tenants who may have copied the key do not have access to the unit. If there is a sliding door, use a security bar. These compose a threat because most of these can lack substantial locking mechanisms.
- Make it look like people are always home. If you have your lights on timers and your blinds and curtains closed, it will look like somebody is in the home, but with their curtains shut so people can’t peep in. If you have an apartment that opens to the outdoors and is on a lower ground, then leave the porch light on where possible. It looks like people are home and also gives you an illuminated path up to your home. Get to know your neighbors and ask them to bring in any packages or letters that could build up if you’re planning to go away for an extended period of time. Of course, only our neighbors that you can trust. The last thing you want to do is to give the illusion that you are away and that your home is now vulnerable.
- Be wise about your parking choices. Speak to your maintenance guy if the area of the car park you’ve been given is dark. Make sure that it’s well-lit and ideally have CCTV pointing in your direction. If it’s monitored properly, you will not feel unsafe to be outside your vehicle.
- Make sure that you have an alarm system set up. Just because you’re in an apartment block doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have an alarm system for anyone trying to break into your building. You deserve to feel safe, and if you know you have deadbolts, CCTV, a well-lit area, and an alarm, you’re going to feel safe whatever you’re doing.
