Do You Live In An Apartment? Here's How To Beef Up Your Security
We all worry about the security of our homes. People assume that crimes like burglary only occur in houses but did you know that they also happen in apartment blocks too? The good news is that there are fewer burglaries getting committed these days.
The bad news is that they still happen. If you live in an apartment, it’s essential you make sure your home is as secure as possible. Check out these tips to make your abode difficult for burglars to break into:
Is your front door in good condition?
Many apartment blocks don’t have modern doors installed in them. That means a burglar can just gain entry into your home with a simple but effective kick of your door! Although some burglars might pick the locks of your front door, others will just barge their way through.
They know that they can get surprised by other people at any moment. So they do what they can to gain entry as fast as possible. Even if it means destroying your front door and frame in the process.
If your front door looks flimsy, invest in a newer, tougher replacement for it. Yes, it might be expensive. But if it helps to prevent burglars from breaking into your apartment, it will be worth the cost.
At the same time, you should also get some strong locks installed. The more locks fitted to a door, the more secure it is. And, did you know that doing so can even reduce your home insurance costs? It’s a win-win situation if you ask me!
Are your windows in good condition?
Do you live in a ground floor apartment? If so, another way that criminals can “try their luck” is to force entry into your home through a window. You’d be surprised how enterprising thieves can fit through the smallest of windows!
Again, check the condition of your windows. If they are constructed of wood and glass, consider replacing them with newer items. Wood doesn’t last forever, and it’s likely your windows aren’t doing their job if chunks of wood come out of the frames.
Do you have a concierge in your building?
Most burglars will enter and exit through the same front entrance that you use each day. They tend to steer clear of buildings that have a concierge (i.e. reception staff) downstairs by the entrance.
That’s because they can get identified by them and subsequently caught by the police. Many complexes like Ultris Courthouse Square have one or more reception staff on-site at all times. If you live in a building populated by a lot of military staff, for example, you’re likely to have a concierge.
But what happens if your building doesn’t have one? You and the other residents can ask the building’s management company for one. If they agree, you might have to pay extra fees to pay for them. Still, it’s worth the extra expense as they are an excellent visual deterrent!
Has your apartment got an alarm?
Last but not least, get an alarm system fitted to your apartment!
That way, if the worst happens and you’re not at home, it'll alert your neighbors to what’s going on. The perpetrators can then get caught by the police.