By Richard Armen
If you rent an apartment, you’re out of luck when it comes to home security, right? Actually, there is a lot you can do protect your personal safety if you live in an apartment building. Home security for apartment-dwellers starts not after you rent the place, but when finding a place to rent. Always ask yourself: does this area look safe? Does this apartment complex look secure? Only the apartment manager can fix some things, like gate locks or outdoor lighting, so don’t move into a place that is lacking in these essential outdoor security devices.
Don’t ever let the fact that you are in a secure apartment building, or that there are other people nearby, allow you to lower your guard completely. This is especially true in a large building where your neighbors may not know you or who is supposed to be in your home. Apartment complexes are high-traffic areas, and you never know who’s inside the building at any given time.
While it’s neighborly to hold the door open for a neighbor you know well, don’t let just anyone in. Many criminals will stand near a door and pretend to be fumbling with their keys, trusting that a resident of the building will let them in. Keeping your apartment secure starts with the first door to the building.
Once you reach the door to your apartment, be on your guard for anyone who may try to sneak up behind you to gain access to your home. Now is not a time to talk on your cell phone will juggling a bag of groceries and reaching for your keys. Avoid looking distracted or vulnerable in any of the common areas of your apartment building.
Even if you can’t install whole-home security systems or a surveillance system, there are plenty of steps that you can take to secure your apartment. Whether the building is secure or not, you must take your safety into your own hands. Keep your windows and doors locked no matter what floor you live on, even when you’re at home. Always have the locks changed when moving into a new place, since you never know who has copies of the previous renter’s keys. Don’t be too generous when giving out copies. If allowed, install a deadbolt lock for additional security. Never leave spare keys under the welcome mat or on top of the door frame. Burglars are well aware of both of these tricks. You might as well leave the key in the door if this is your plan.
A great option for apartment dwellers is portable door or window alarms. Simply place an alarm on your door or window, and it will sound a loud alarm when someone has opened it. These small devices can easily be taken with you when you move, making them ideal for those in short-term living arrangements.
Getting renter’s insurance, which is similar to homeowners insurance, is an important way to protect your belongings. Sometimes all the home security measures in the world can’t protect your apartment from a break-in.
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Source: www.isnare.com
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See the original post here: Home Security For Renters and Apartment Dwellers



