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Security Tips for Rentals
The last time I lived without help from anyone else, it was in a rented apartment in the heart of Chicago’s Lincoln Park area. It was my first (and last) time living alone with only my dog for company. However, I enjoyed it immensely and also experienced a touch of understandable fear. My concerns were broad and varied, and I often gave a side-eye look at any truck waiting on my street late into the evening, wondering whether somebody was planning a burglary or something worse.
Residing in fear isn’t the most effective way to approach your life, yet the world can be challenging. Furthermore, according to statistics, you’re more likely to be burglarized as a rental resident than if you own your home. Hence, taking sensible precautions is a smart idea whether you’re moving into a home alone or with others. In any case, you’re leasing and can’t always have a wired home security framework introduced.
Digital security is another important part of protecting a rental property. Along with physical security measures, renters should secure their Wi-Fi, phones, computers, and online accounts. If you use security software that you no longer need, you can also learn how to cancel a Scanguard subscription and review other security tools that may be installed on your devices.
What Are Your Best Security Tips for Rentals?
Ask Your Landlord to Install Locks on Any First-Floor Windows
Most apartments had their entry from an external perspective, with a little foyer that led to my front door. There was a transom window over my front entrance and a bigger window in the corridor that started my property manager’s garage. One morning I woke to the transom window open, with a clear set of fingerprints in the dust. The window to the outside was also available.
Luckily, unless the person who had broken into the front lobby was child-sized, they weren’t getting past the transom window. In any case, this did little to alleviate my concern that somebody could break into my condo. So I requested that my landlord nail both windows shut permanently, which he did.
For additional windows, especially those you may need to open from time to time, a primary lock is simple for your property manager to install and can provide both safety and peace of mind. Locks should be installed on any first-floor and easily accessible windows from the outside, such as those overlooking a balcony or staircase.
Ask for a New Lock on the Front Door
At the point when you move in, demand that any entry doors leading to the outside be fitted with new locks. You probably don’t know the previous occupant, nor who they gave copies of the keys to.
You might need to take care of the expense if your landlord does not do it himself. However, knowing exactly who can enter your living space is worth it. You might also want to request a deadbolt or chain lock if there isn’t one.
Get a Dog
The night my transom window was opened, my dog, a small but powerful Beagle/Terrier mix, was staying at my sister’s because I was leaving town the next day. However, I am sure that any movement close to the front door would have sent her into a free-for-all.
A dog can act as an alert system by making you aware of somebody attempting to enter. They’ll also potentially deter intruders who are looking for an easy target.
Install a Streaming Camera
Perhaps the best purchase I’ve made for rental security was a small, round camera that I put on the shelf in my family room. The camera enabled me to see what was happening in my condo when I wasn’t home simply by streaming through an application on my phone. It also recorded movement so I could review it later.
Of course, cameras like this can cost several hundred dollars, but they’re useful for monitoring what’s happening when you’re away. Also, if something occurs, you’ll have an easily accessible recording of the incident on your phone.
When installing a smart camera, remember that the camera itself is an internet-connected device. Change the default password, enable two-factor authentication when available, keep its firmware updated, and use a secure Wi-Fi network.
Explore Rental-Focused Home Security Systems
While you can’t install a wired security framework, you have other alarm choices that are specifically designed for apartment and rental security. For example, consider a door-stop alarm, a modest, battery-powered device activated when a door is opened.
Furthermore, some major security companies offer home security systems for renters with wireless equipment. They’re movable, so you can take them when you leave. However, like wired systems, some may require a contract.
Before signing up for any security service, check the cancellation terms, recurring charges, equipment fees, and contract length. If you are using a security or antivirus subscription that you no longer need, understanding the cancellation process can also help you avoid unwanted renewals.
Don’t Let Anyone In Who You Don’t Know or Aren’t Expecting
In the modern world, strangers might drop by to deliver everything from your Amazon packages to your food to that smoothie you ordered from the shop down the street because you were too lazy to get it yourself. Plenty of unknown people might be making an appearance at your door.
And while your first instinct might be to invite them into the lobby as you grab your wallet for a tip, be more cautious and interact with them outside. Of course, it’s okay to be somewhat rude now and then if it means keeping yourself safe.
The same logic applies to handymen and repair workers. If your property manager hasn’t explicitly told you that someone is stopping by and when, don’t give someone access simply because they claim they were sent to fix something.
Install Outdoor Lights
Ensure your rental property is sufficiently bright, particularly around the path leading to your front door. At my condo, I wrapped string lights around the railing outside, leading up the stairs to the entrance.
You can also investigate battery-powered pathway lights or lamps. You can choose to have the lights on constantly or, if you’re trying to conserve energy, have them activate when motion is detected.
Make It Look Like You Have More Security Than You Do
A few harmless measures can genuinely work in your favor. You can give potential intruders the impression that your rental is well protected with a security company sign attached to your front door or window or an artificial surveillance camera mounted over your entrance.
However, avoid relying solely on fake security equipment. Real locks, lighting, cameras, alarms, and good digital security practices provide much stronger protection.
Protect Your Wi-Fi and Connected Devices
Rental security is not only about doors and windows. Your home Wi-Fi network connects phones, laptops, smart TVs, cameras, and other devices, so securing your network is essential.
Use a strong, unique Wi-Fi password and change the router’s default administrator password. Keep your router firmware updated and avoid sharing your primary Wi-Fi password with people you don’t trust.
If you regularly use a VPN, remember that a VPN can add privacy when browsing on the internet, but it doesn’t replace basic device security. It is especially important to understand the difference between privacy tools and antivirus protection.
For people who use peer-to-peer services, our guide to cheap VPNs for torrenting explains some of the factors to consider when selecting a VPN for P2P activity.
Secure Your Gaming Devices and Consoles
Gaming PCs, consoles, and mobile devices can also contain valuable accounts and personal information. Use unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and avoid downloading unofficial files or suspicious modifications.
A VPN can sometimes provide an additional layer of privacy while gaming, although it cannot protect you from every type of online threat. If you’re interested in VPN options specifically for gaming, see our guide to the top best VPNs for gaming.
Out for the Night? Give the Illusion That You’re Home
A home sitting dark is a much more straightforward target for a robber than one with signs of activity. If you know you’ll be away for some time, and particularly if you’re going out of town, you might want to install a simple mechanical outlet timer.
These can turn lights, music, or televisions on and off at scheduled times. It’s a straightforward method of giving the appearance that somebody is home and ready, even when you are many miles away.
Make sure to keep the blinds closed in case a potential intruder attempts to get a better look inside.
Protect Devices From Fake Virus Alerts
Rental security also includes protecting your computers and phones from online scams. While browsing, you may encounter a pop-up claiming that your Microsoft account or computer has been infected.
Do not immediately click the warning or call a phone number displayed in a suspicious pop-up. These alerts can be designed to trick users into downloading unwanted software or handing over personal information.
If you encounter one, our guide on how to remove the virus alert from Microsoft provides additional information on dealing with suspicious virus warnings.
Be Careful With Downloads and Roblox-Related Files
Children and teenagers may use gaming platforms such as Roblox on shared devices. Downloading unofficial Roblox files, modifications, or unknown programs can potentially expose a computer to unwanted software.
Parents and renters sharing computers should therefore encourage safe downloading habits and keep antivirus software updated. If you suspect a device has been affected by Roblox-related malware, you can read our guide on how to remove the Roblox virus for additional guidance.
Linux Users Should Also Secure Their Devices
If you use Linux on a personal or work computer inside your rental, don’t overlook VPN compatibility and basic network security. Check whether your chosen VPN supports your Linux distribution and whether it provides the privacy features you actually need.
For more information, see our guide to the best Linux VPNs for work.
Get Renter’s Insurance
While it’s nothing but a safety measure, renter’s insurance can cover the costs if something happens in your home. Furthermore, at a relatively modest monthly cost, it is worth investigating as a contingency plan.
In addition to covering the costs in case of home theft, most renter’s insurance plans may also cover other disasters, such as water damage, fire damage, and vandalism. Some plans even cover certain thefts from your vehicle if it is parked at your rental property.
Always read the policy carefully to understand deductibles, coverage limits, exclusions, and whether expensive electronics or other valuables require additional coverage.
Conclusion
Security safeguards are significant regardless of where you live. Follow a few of these tips to make your rental property safer, from installing better locks and outdoor lighting to securing your Wi-Fi, smart devices, and online accounts.
You don’t need an expensive wired security system to improve your safety. Small steps such as using strong passwords, keeping devices updated, installing a camera, checking visitors carefully, and maintaining renter’s insurance can make a meaningful difference.
And if you genuinely feel something is wrong or you notice signs of an attempted break-in, never hesitate to contact the appropriate local authorities for help.
