Apartment Security Measures That Will Make You Worry Less

1. Think about Security before Relocating
2. Fortify Entry Points

   • Advanced Locking Systems
   • Smart access control
   • Smart locks (to lock and unlock doors with smartphones)
   • Secure the Windows

3. Do It Yourself Security Measures
4. Lighting Defense to Give the Illusion You’re Home
5. Peephole Camera
6. Safeguard Outdoor Areas with Security Cameras
7. Install Wireless Alarm Systems or Cameras
8. Invest in Home Automation Services
9. Safeguard Your Possessions
10. Build Connections with Neighbors
11. Tenant insurance
12. Home security system

    • Security systems for renters compared

The likelihood of theft is twice as high for renters as for owners. There are a few reasons for this, but the main one is that a thief can more easily blend in with the crowd in apartment buildings since people come and go frequently. Often, the burglar lives a few miles away from the rentals they prey on.

Statistics show that two-thirds of burglaries occur through a door, with 21% of cases involving doors, particularly in flats or apartments. To ensure peace of mind when settling into your new home, consider these safety tips tailored for apartment living.

Here are some pointers on how to make high-density housing in metropolitan cities in France more secure.

Think about Security before Relocating

First, find out which neighborhoods are the safest.
One of the many variables affecting apartment security is its location. Naturally, apartments will draw the wrong kind of tenants if they are on the wrong side of town. There is nothing you can do about the apartment’s location. The location is fixed, thus it could become a balancing as you try to decide between apartment features, price, and other factors.

Security in apartments begins long before tenants move in. When looking for a new home, prioritize security. When visiting possible homes, look for any hazards and confirm that security features like cameras, security lights, and entrance locks are installed.

Look at the apartment building at night and imagine how secure it would be to stroll about the property or get to your car. Verify the apartment location’s crime statistics as well.

Fortify Entry Points

Get into the habit of checking that all doors and windows are properly locked before bedtime when leaving the house or showering. It’s easy to overlook a window left for ventilation during the day, and statistics show that a significant percentage of burglars enter through windows.

1. Advanced Locking Systems

Changing your locks allows you to regulate who has access to your home. This step is crucial if you are unsure who might have keys to the locks—such as tenants, their acquaintances, family members, or even contractors who have worked on the property.

Smart locks allow you to lock or unlock doors from any location with internet connectivity. They fuse cutting-edge technology with conventional locking mechanisms through smartphone apps.

Real-time monitoring, two-factor authentication, and improved security with encryption are features of advanced lock systems.

Among the advanced locks are:

• Deadbolt Replacements: These replace a door’s original deadbolt. They come in a variety of designs and require simple do-it-yourself installation knowledge.
• Retrofit Devices: These devices convert conventional locks into smart ones without changing the lock assembly.
• Integrated Smart Locks: Certain manufacturers integrate smart lock technology straight into door hardware. Therefore, a separate smart lock device is not necessary.
• Keyless Entry Systems: These smart locks allow entry via proximity sensors, fingerprint recognition, or keypad numbers.

2. Smart access control

Technology is a huge factor in increasing apartment security. Tenants can live in a safer environment thanks to intercoms, surveillance cameras, and access control systems.

Installing an access control system boosts both convenience and security at your property, which are the top priorities of tenants. Try to opt for an access control system that offers:

• Smartphone-based video intercom: Residents can unlock the door using a mobile smartphone app, eliminating the need for carrying keys. Additionally, residents can remotely grant access to their visitors.

• Keypads: Keypads allow residents to access these spaces using a PIN code or smartphones.

Many renters enjoy the advantages of controlled entrance, protected parking, and on-site personnel regarding apartment security.

3. Smart locks (to lock and unlock doors with smartphones)

Tenants love smart locks because:

• They can eliminate keys.
• They will never face being locked out.
• Many smart locks have a function allowing homeowners to share digital access codes with guests.

4. Secure the Windows

Make sure your windows are secure: Consider installing locks like pin locks, hinged wedge locks, window latches, or child safety latches, primarily if you reside on the ground level.

Upgrade to tempered glass instead of regular glass, as it is more durable and less prone to breaking. Tempered glass can make it more challenging for burglars to break into your home quickly.

Tinted or security window film can boost your apartment’s security and privacy. These films have perks, such as energy efficiency, making them a valuable investment for apartment residents. Moreover, most DIY enthusiasts can easily apply window tinting like a pro at home.

Tinted window film reduces visibility from the outside, safeguarding the interior of your apartment from prying eyes. This is especially beneficial for ground-floor apartments situated in neighborhoods.

Security window film strengthens the glass, enhancing its resistance to breakage. It is advisable to install security window film at potentially vulnerable entry points.

Glass break sensors

Think about adding glass break sensors to your apartment security setup. Place these sensors near glass doors and windows; they will alert you via smartphone if they detect any breakage. These sensors pick up vibrations and sound, deterring intruders whether you’re at home or out.

Do It Yourself Security Measures

As obvious as it may seem, most burglars target apartments because they know exactly what they will find. Many burglars investigate possible victims before robbing them. Consequently, they will often go elsewhere if they cannot see into your area. 

Remember to close the blinds before leaving to prevent electronics from being visible through the windows. Make sure all windows and doors are securely locked, and consider using dowels or boards in the track of sliding glass doors for added security.

1. Select mortise locks or double-cylinder deadbolts. Explore digital or smart locks for remote access or keyless entry for better convenience and security.

2. Purchase a portable safe or store valuables in unlikely locations, such as the back of the freezer. Investigate disguised hiding places, such as hollow books or phony containers, to prevent criminals from finding valuables quickly.

3. If you can’t change the locks, get a door security bar in addition to upgrading the locks. These bars, which are angled between the doorknob and the floor to provide additional support if someone tries to enter the door, are also known as door jammers. These are essentially robust doorstops that can withstand a person’s force.   

4. While you are away, leave a lamp on or turn on the TV to create the impression that you are home. An electronic bulb can be programmed to turn on for a specific amount of time daily. This is particularly wise if you intend to be away during the holidays when many people vacation and your home becomes more vulnerable to break-ins.

Lighting Defense to Give the Illusion You’re Home

Lighting as a deterrent against burglaries creates the illusion of someone being at home by replicating human behavior. Program indoor lights to turn on and off at different times to mimic the presence of occupants. This irregular pattern can discourage intruders by making it seem like someone is indoors.

Additionally, consider installing motion-activated lights around your property in areas with trees. Motion lights brighten up the surroundings when they sense any movement.

Use Timed Lighting

Setting up timed lighting in your apartment is a tactic to discourage intruders. With timers programmed to switch lights on and off at different intervals, it gives the impression that someone’s present at home, even when you’re not. This unpredictable lighting schedule discourages any efforts to surveil your apartment for vacancy signs.

Peephole Camera

Many apartments come equipped with peepholes, which take security up a notch. Similar to doorbell cameras, these cameras let you see and talk to visitors through an app without opening your door. They also have motion detection features for added peace of mind. Installing a camera is usually an easy DIY project, saving you from hiring professionals for doorbell camera setup.

Safeguard Outdoor Areas with Security Cameras

Security cameras serve as a deterrent, gather evidence, and offer monitoring capabilities. You could utilize security cameras to protect apartment spaces like balconies, gardens, or rooftop decks. Also, installing them doesn’t require a whole home security system.

Think about safety and security in apartments and ask yourself the following:

• When a new tenant moves in, does the landlord change the locks?
• Are there any security cameras in the building?
• Do the security personnel in the building know every tenant?
• Is the fire alarm system in the building in proper operating order?

Install Wireless Alarm Systems or Cameras

It’s rare for landlords to permit tenants to drill holes in apartment walls for a security system. Luckily, there are plenty of top-notch wireless systems available nowadays. These security setups stick to doors and windows.

Wireless video surveillance cameras are also another good investment. Your smartphone acts as your monitor, enabling you to watch your home from anywhere with an internet connection. Some wireless cameras feature night vision, motion detection, and two-way communication so that you can communicate with anyone at your apartment door.

Invest in Home Automation Services

Using home automation services, you can manage everything from lighting to temperature. Your security system, including video monitoring capabilities, will be accessible through your smartphone or tablet.

Safeguard Your Possessions

Many would-be thieves tend to survey a residence before attempting a burglary. They often glance through windows to assess if there are valuables. Even if you reside on the floors of an apartment building, leaving your lights on at night can make your activities visible to passersby on the street. It’s advisable to keep your curtains drawn and blinds shut after dark to prevent displaying all your belongings.

Additionally, consider investing in a high-quality safe to protect against theft. A secure safe is ideal for safeguarding cash, firearms, jewelry, essential documents, or precious family heirlooms.

Build Connections with Neighbors

Establishing relations with your neighbors is a strategy for protecting your home and possessions. While it’s beneficial to acquaint yourself with as many people in your building as possible, focus on getting to know those who live next door or across the hall.

When neighbors are familiar with each other, they naturally form a neighborhood watch within the apartment complex. By fostering bonds with those around you, they are more likely to watch over your home in your absence. You can reciprocate the gesture.

Making friends with your residents in an apartment complex is a kind gesture and a smart security move, especially in buildings lacking a doorkeeper or robust security measures.

An excellent way to start is by setting up a group chat for the building using text messaging or an app like Signal. This will make it simpler for residents to keep in touch and promote the building’s safety.

Although connecting with neighbors can be advantageous, be cautious. Some persons might gain entry to your apartment while you’re away by using their knowledge of your arrivals and departures. Try to restrict who you tell these details to. Also, try avoiding posting about your vacation plans or other personal information on social media, as this can make you a target for burglars.

Tenant insurance

Consider getting tenants’ insurance even if you have a safe. A thief could still steal your electronics, clothing, or furniture. While your landlord’s insurance handles building damages, renters insurance offers coverage for your belongings, providing peace of mind in case of a break-in.

Home security system

These systems provide layers of protection for apartment residents, including monitoring for fires and other environmental hazards. They typically include security devices like doorbell cameras, sensors for doors and windows, and security cameras. Most systems allow access through an app with video monitoring capabilities. The best part is that you will receive alerts in case of a break-in or emergency.

When choosing a home security system, it’s essential to pick one that fits your home layout and budget.

Security systems for renters compared

For apartment dwellers, the top home security firms provide a range of systems with renter-friendly features, including wireless communication and adhesive installation.