Unfortunately, crime exists to a certain degree in all corners of the world. Being a renter allows for freedom of choice regarding where you will live, but it is somewhat constricting as to other security measures. Here are some practical apartment security tips for renters that can help you create a safe environment in a very literal sense.

Pay Attention to the Building

Renters usually pay most of their attention to the apartments, but when it comes to safety, the building is also important. And we are not talking about its design but certain details that contribute to how safe a person living there is.

Lighting

Properly illuminated building hallways and a front door reduce the chance of someone committing a crime right there. Criminals commonly use the surprise factor when committing a felony, and light is their enemy. If you like the apartment in a building that is too dark to feel safe, talk to the residents and see if there’s a way to fix this issue.  

Neighbors and Neighborhood

Speaking of talking to the residents, you should do it even if the building is sufficiently bright. Living close to people that are prone to illegal behavior is not recommendable. You never know when they might decide you should be their next target in some negative sense.

The neighborhoods usually have a reputation you can discover one way or another. You will want to have the statistics regarding the area you intend to move to for other reasons as well, so take a look at crime rates, too, while you’re at it.

Approach

The approach to the building should be well-illuminated and open to view. Buildings that are too deeply set into the block with narrow and obscure paths leading to the entrance are far more dangerous than those near the road or other busier areas.

The Apartment’s Front Door and Windows

One of the apartment security tips for renters is that the front door and windows should be of proper quality. Faulty windows are not only a hazard to your safety but also reduce the energy efficiency of your home. The front door is the most important barrier between you and the intruders.

When it is secure and reliable, the chances of a burglar getting in drop significantly. Those are the details you should pay most of your attention to when you are viewing potential homes to rent.

It would be best if you could commit to doing these and all other inspections of your new apartment with nothing else on your mind. For example, if you are moving from California to Las Vegas, to save yourself both time and nerves, hiring interstate movers may be a crucial choice.

That way, you would leave it to the pros and you would be able to apply your full attention to viewing apartments and analyzing how safe they are.

Caption: The front door should be a reliable barrier against potential intruders.

Alt-text: A deadlock on a sturdy-looking door.

Go Through Your Renter’s Insurance

The mandatory part of your rental agreement may or may not be renter’s insurance. In any case, it is a useful security measure that protects both you as a renter and your belongings and the apartment. There are different packages with broader or smaller coverage.When it comes to security and protection against theft, renters should pay special attention to the personal property section. That part defines compensations for stolen items.

There is usually an option of expanding the insurance package to include benefits related to renters. This may seem unnecessary to you now, but it’s one of those things, the value of which you understand only when it’s too late.

Consider Living With a Roommate

Despite all the safety measures and precautions, some people will still be scared of intruders when they are alone. These particular types should seriously consider living with a roommate. Moving in with a partner or getting married is another solution to this problem, but it would be wrong to opt for such a big step only not to be alone.

For starters, having a roommate will get your mind off the possibility of someone breaking in. Also, doing the housework will be a lot easier – twice, to be precise. Finally, paying rent and bills is more manageable when you only have to cover half the amount.

The only problem with this idea is that you might not be able to fit all your belongings in the apartment once the roomies are there too. Professionals in storage and moving from Mod Movers propose that you select the items you do not use as often and put them in a rented storage unit. That way, you will not be forced to get rid of any of your stuff and still have a roommate.

One of the useful apartment security tips for renters – think of making your home a bit smarter

In the future, smart homes are probably going to be as common as non-smart ones are today. The gadgets that make them smart are becoming more affordable each year. One of the main characteristics of such futuristic places is that you can have live-streaming from home cameras to your smartphone.

Parents love this option, especially when their kids are still young. Being able to check up on your children like that without having to call them is a real nerve-saver. Nowadays, even robot vacuum cleaners can have cameras and position themselves to record the front door. Some consider these invasions of privacy a bit inappropriate, but if all of the family members are ok with it, there’s no problem.

Final Thoughts

Feeling safe where you live is very important for the overall stress level in a person’s life. Being able to fully relax and let the anxiety go is the first precondition to a sane mind. With these practical apartment security tips for renters, you can find the place where you will feel safe and recharge your batteries properly.

So, after a long and exhausting day, when you sit in that comfy chair in front of the TV, the only thing you’ll be thinking of is your pillow and sweet dreams, not who might want to break in.