There are many perks to building your apartment home. But from time to time, living in an apartment can feel overwhelming. No matter what, you want your apartment to feel like home. Sometimes, that means taking extra security precautions to create your sanctuary in the city.
If you want to know that your apartment home is always safe and sound, here are four ways to up the security in your apartment home.
1. Check the State of Your Apartment
When you’re living in an apartment, there may be some aspects of your building you don’t think about. Maybe there’s a gate that leads to a small backyard. Or your peephole has a crack in it, making it impossible to see who is standing at the door.
There is general upkeep that needs to be handled to make your apartment safe. When upping the security of your apartment home, be sure to check the state of your apartment for any security red flags. Some of the things you should check include:
- Peepholes
- Entrances/Exits
- Locks and Chain Locks
- Gates
- Door Codes
- Garage/Door Openers
If you find issues with any of these items around your apartment, you can bring them up to your landlord or maintenance. If you ever feel unsafe about old locks or entrances that seem easy to access, be sure to discuss what types of upgrades your maintenance team can provide.
2. Secure Your Windows
It’s always nice to enjoy the view, but as a renter, you want to make sure your windows function safely. If you live in a first-floor apartment, this may mean installing bars on the windows to prevent break-ins.
If you live on a higher floor, break-ins may not be as much of a threat. However, you’ll want to make sure your windows easily open, close, and lock. Your windows can be your emergency exit, so making sure they are easily accessible. This will keep you safe in the event of a fire.
Finally, make sure you invest in some blinds and curtains. When you live in an apartment, the building next store may be able to see right into your windows. This could make you a target if burglars can see your belongings. Having curtains is also a good way to get some privacy as well.
3. Utilize Discreet Security Cameras
There are many renter-friendly options when it comes to security cameras these days. A great option is a doorbell with a camera that feeds to your phone. This way, you don’t have to go through the expense of setting up an entire security system. You can also see who is visiting your apartment when you aren’t home.
Having a doorbell camera is the perfect way to create a video intercom system if your building doesn’t have one. Or let’s face it, your building has one but it doesn’t work. If anything does happen to your apartment, you’ll have video evidence that you can use later on too.
4. Meet Your Neighbors
Even though your neighbors may live right below you, you might never see them. Instead of living with ghost neighbors, it’s in your best interest to get to know the people that are around you.
You shouldn’t think your neighbors are an immediate safety threat. But rather people in your community that can help you in case of an emergency. When you move into a new apartment, try having your immediate neighbors over for a cup of coffee.
You can make your neighbors feel at home using your coffee setup and quick conversation. Even if you’ve just moved in, you can find great coffee makers and grinders with this extensive list from The Home Blog.
Sitting down with your neighbors and getting to know them over a quick coffee chat is a great way to build trust. If anything ever happens, you’ll feel secure knowing they’ll lend a hand and vice versa.
Conclusion
Living in an apartment home combines all of the best elements of city life while having a cozy escape. You should always feel safe in your home. So never be afraid to up the security of your apartment home. Whether it’s just talking to your maintenance team or getting a doorbell camera, a little added security can go a long way.