TIPS FOR CHECKING SAFETY
- Find out about the local crime rate
It’s all about the location.
Before you decide on a place to call home, it’s essential to find out the crime rate in the area and talk to the residents.
Look online to see what’s been happening in the area in terms of crime, and talk to neighbors, police and local business owners to learn more about the neighborhood before you move in.
- What about the outdoor lighting?
Apartment buildings and complexes often have dark, insecure nooks and crannies, making them perfect for people who want to sneak around.
Check out hallways, parking lots, storage areas, waste disposal areas, stairwells, laundry rooms, post offices and other public areas, also ask about surveillance cameras.
If possible, check at night to get a clear idea of how well lit everything is and whether there are motion sensors in the area.
- Your home furnishings
Small things like burnt out light bulbs or leaky taps are easy to fix, but can also be telltale signs of a less attentive landlord.
Avoid having broken locks or windows – and waiting weeks for something to be fixed.
- Check inputs
A burglar’s first stops are the entrances to your own home and your building or complex.
Check all entrances for secure locks and additional security measures such as peepholes, chain locks, key codes, cameras and remote unlocking.
Ask the property management, developer or owner how often keys and key codes are changed.
You don’t want to run the risk of a previous tenant having access to your apartment.
- Are the windows secure?
Windows come 2nd after the front door.
Check the windows for sturdy, user-friendly locks, especially if you are on the first floor.
Make sure the windows are secure from the outside and try to think like a burglar: could you get into your home through a window?
Also look out for windows with door locks nearby, as intruders can easily break a window to reach in and open a lock.
- Test emergency exits
Can you get out quickly in an emergency?
Look for posted escape plans.
Check whether your windows can be opened easily.
Check that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working.
Make sure that all escape ladders are properly stored so that burglars cannot reach them from the ground.