10 Tips to Secure Your Rental Property

Everyone’s goal is to live in a secure home where you can eat and sleep with the comfort of knowing you are safe. However, if you’re a landlord, you also need to ensure someone’s security in the place they call home. Not only that, but you also have a tremendous job of protecting your rental property, which for you is a business asset.

This blog gives you 10 pointers on how to secure a rental property. Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, these tips are proven to be effective and will not cost you a lot of money.

 

1. Keep the Property Well Lit

The indoor area is not the only place in your room that should have lights installed. External areas around the property should have quality lighting. If possible, choose lights that are activated by movement.

Make sure that areas around windows and doors are well lit to deter thieves who do their dirty work when there is poor lighting. Adding lighting is also handy for illuminating the pathway whilst making it easier to find your keys.

 

2. Talk to the Landlord (or Tenant)

If you are a tenant, you should talk to the property’s landlord regarding any security concerns you may have. Some rental properties may already have security cameras installed, while others don’t. You can always express any issues you may have about security mechanisms in place or lack thereof.

Remember that your safety is every rental property’s priority. Know your rights as a tenant, especially under the Residential Tenancies Regulations 1989, which gives details about WA’s residential tenancy agreements.

 

3. Perform a Security Audit

After talking to the landlord, you will know the devices and hardware installed in the vicinity. Your job now is to look and walk around to find any holes in the existing security mechanisms. Are there vulnerabilities, such as hiding spots behind trees or bushes? Will it be easy for any intruder to pick the lock and enter through the front door?

If you think you can break in, imagine how unchallenging it would be for experienced thieves. Make sure you consult your landlord about the issues you have just discovered. Also, try these steps to help you prevent possible break-ins.

 

4. Be Wise with Your Spare Keys

Let’s be honest. People who hide their spare keys under the mat at the entrance invite thieves into their homes. It’s 2022, and it’s time to eliminate these futile attempts. If you still hide your spare by the front door in the most obvious place possible, such as under the pot or rock, you need to upgrade your key-hiding tactics.

We recommend giving your spare key to a family member, friend, or neighbour you trust. Better yet, go keyless by installing keyless locks if you always seem to lose your keys, especially during crucial times. This blog will also help you if you always lock yourself out.

 

5. Keep the Doors and Windows Locked

Many of us want to leave the doors and windows open to let some breeze in, particularly during summer. But here’s the truth; it is not worth it. Ensure that you lock your doors and windows, whether you are in the rental property.

You may have screen doors that make you feel secure because no insects can get in the house. However, it’s not the pests that you have to worry about. Burglars are known to exploit fly screen doors, which these criminals like because they are a structural vulnerability.

 

6. Install Security Cameras

Bolster the rental home’s security with a camera that you can install and use immediately. You can rely on your security camera when you want to know who’s at the door without getting up from the couch.

These cameras can be installed at the front or rear of the rental home or apartment. Some devices can also be integrated with your smartphone, allowing you to receive alerts if anyone is trying to access the property. That’s possible even when you are not around.

 

7. Set Up Window and Door Alarms

Door-stop alarms may be viewed as a low tech option but are certainly effective in keeping unauthorised people out of the property. Window alarms are also useful as they are designed to sense movement and vibrations.

Both window and door alarms are easy to install, and you can also remove or replace them by yourself. They are inexpensive, portable, and discreet. Many alarms produce piercing sounds as loud as 100 dB, making them act as an alert system and a deterrent at the same time.

 

8. Eliminate Hiding Spots

Trees, bushes, and plants contribute to the rental property’s kerb appeal. However, they also give thieves an excellent place to hide. Increase your safety by trimming down trees and keeping them at a good height, especially those close to the house or apartment. These spots can easily be used for cover.

If you are concerned about the appeal, you can opt for smaller flowers or potted plants. In some cases where you are not allowed to remove trees, mainly if they are close to the windows, you can reinforce those windows instead.

 

9. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Don’t tempt burglars with your latest purchases. Now is not the time to leave your doors and front entry wide open. Anything portable, specifically those in plain sight, can be taken. We’re talking about jewellery, cash, and small but expensive items. Never put them on display. If you can, invest in a safe where you can put your valuables without worrying about losing them or, worse, getting stolen.

Other options include hiding them in hollowed-out books, false containers in your cupboards or under the sink, and a floor safe in your bedroom closet.

 

10. Get Insurance

A renter’s insurance will not keep thieves away from the rental property. However, this type of insurance can aid in case terrible people break into the apartment. Some of your losses can be reimbursed as long as they are covered by the renter’s insurance. Mainly, it covers possessions or belongings that you may have lost due to burglary, fire, and other instances.

Note that coverage can differ significantly from one policy to the next. Read the terms and conditions carefully to know what is covered and what’s not before signing the dotted line.

These 10 security measures are here for you to use and enhance your rental property’s security. Break-ins often occur because tenants leave doors or windows open. Perhaps you left your spare key in a conspicuous location. Keep your rental property secure with the tips above. Make sure that you work with a reputable locksmith to help keep your locks safe, useful, and effective. Contact Diamond Lock & Security today!