Apartment buildings can be home to hundreds of people and may come equipped with buzzers, ID-enabled entry systems or doormen.
But those features may result in a false sense of security, says DeeDee Dalton, managing director of the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC). After all, apartment buildings have multiple points of entry and a lot of strangers coming and going—from service people to friends of residents—so it can be easy for burglars to gain access and blend in, she says.
And when they do, they’re quick. “Most burglars want to be in and out in just a few minutes,” she says.
Here’s how to help keep apartment burglars at bay.
Lock Up
Safeguard Your Key
Upon moving in, request a lock change and monitor your spare keys. Whenever possible, avoid giving keys to anyone doing maintenance or renovation work in your home, says Dalton. And don’t let workers or other strangers into your apartment if you or someone you trust can’t be present.
Be Neighborly
Getting to know your neighbors allows for you to watch out for one another’s apartments. If you’re going out of town, hold your mail and have friends or a trusted neighbor check on your apartment while you’re away. And consider joining or organizing an Apartment Watch group so that neighbors in your building can look out for and help one another.
Play with the Lights
Consider A Security System
A wireless security system could be appealing as a renter; it’s more portable than an installed system, and your lease may prohibit you from drilling into walls and hooking up wires. “They are often simple and easy to set up yourself, and are available in basic packages for smaller spaces,” says Long. “Look for a system with 24/7 monitoring, which will alert help if suspicious activity, or any type of emergency, is detected.” Similarly, you can set up security cameras that can be monitored via smartphone and alert the authorities when triggered. Plus, having a security system could help save you money on renters insurance.
Ask Management To Help
If your building has a doorman or a front desk staff, be sure there’s a system to log visitors as they come in (if not, suggest it). If there’s no staff, ask to have a security camera installed in the lobby. Having these measures in place may help deter burglars, Long says. “Plus, the more security measures a building has in place, the more information tenants and landlords have available in case something happens.”
Hide The Good Stuff
Dress Up Your Windows
If you’re on the ground or first floor, installing curtains or blinds could prevent burglars from peering in to scope out your space. “If windows are easily visible from the outside, close the blinds,” Long advises. “For windows that are less visible or on higher floors, leave the blinds open to allow timed lights to shine through.”
Be Alert
Always be aware of solicitors and delivery people lingering in your building; take note of suspicious behavior and alert the police and your landlord or management right away, says Dalton.
By Stacey Colino
A renters insurance policy can help give you peace of mind for your most important personal belongings. Contact the GEICO Insurance Agency for a free quote.
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