It’s estimated that over 80% of apartment residents don’t take extra measures to protect the security of their home. While many people may feel that renting an apartment makes them less vulnerable to burglary, apartments may actually be more attractive to burglars. For example, in certain parts of Texas, burglaries in apartments are 5-10% higher than burglaries in residential homes. Here are a few tips to help you to improve the security of your apartment home.
Use Common Sense
Too often, people adopt a “dorm room” mentality for their apartment, and don’t take standard security precautions. For example, it can be tempting to leave your door unlocked when you leave to run errands. However, even in apartments, it’s essential that you use common sense. Never leave your door unlocked, even while you’re at home. Keep all ground-floor entry points locked, unless there are specific restrictions in your apartment’s lease. Avoid leaving your door partially open, since this is an open invitation for unauthorized intruders. Never “buzz” anyone inside that you don’t personally recognize, even if they claim to be a “friend” of another resident.
Special Precaution for Women
If you are a woman living alone in an apartment, there are some extra measures you need to take to protect your security and safety. If your apartment requires that write your name on your door to receive mail, only write your first initial and last name. Some predators will target women by identifying female names. This same precaution should be taken when writing your name on mailbox plates, call buttons and other areas around your apartment complex.
Witnessing a Burglary
If you come home to an in-progress burglary, do not attempt to confront the burglar! Some burglars may be armed, and may attempt to assault you in order to make their escape. If you find an in-progress burglary inside your apartment, immediately leave, find a safe area and call 911.
Install a Security System
Many home security companies have specific plans available for people living in apartments. These custom plans may have special sensors designed to help improve detection of unauthorized entry. Though a monitored home security system may seem like an unnecessary cost, it can go a long way towards protecting against burglary, fire and other disasters.
Purchase Renter’s Insurance
Today’s renter’s insurance rates are extremely affordable, and offer a sizable amount of coverage for the items inside your apartment. Many of the large insurance providers offer competitive rates, so don’t be afraid to shop around. To assist with potentially filing a claim, you can also make a detailed list of all of the expensive items in your apartment, to be sure that they are covered under your renter’s insurance policy. Home inventory software can also be very useful for keeping track of the items in your apartment.
