Renting a home is all about finding that sweet spot between comfort and flexibility. You want to feel safe and secure in your rental property, but you also need to maintain the ability to pack up and move when the lease ends.
Fortunately, you can have both – a cozy home and reliable security. In this guide, we'll explore 9 ways to bolster your home security, ensuring your peace of mind without breaking the bank or upsetting your landlord.
Install a Battery-Operated Wireless Camera
Enter the battery-operated wireless camera. These little wonders are a renter's dream come true because they're easy to install and won't require you to drill holes in your walls. Just find a strategic spot, mount your camera, and voila – you're watching over your home 24/7.
Many options are budget-friendly and offer high-resolution video, motion detection, and even two-way audio.
Invest in a Wireless Security System for Your Rental Property
To take your security up a notch, consider installing a wireless security system in your rental property.
These smart systems often include door/window sensors, motion detectors, and smartphone apps that allow you to monitor your home remotely. The best part? When you move, you can take the system with you. No more messy installations or leaving your investment behind.
Use Automatic Timers to Turn on Lights
Burglars are like ninjas in the night, and you don't want them sneaking into your rental property. So, let's shed some light on the situation!
Automatic timers for your lights are a cost-effective way to create the illusion that someone's home, even when you're not. Set them up to turn on and off at different times to mimic your daily routines.
Portable Motion Sensor Lights
For renters on the go, portable motion sensor lights are a fantastic solution.
These handy devices detect movement and light up, making your entrance or any dark corners less appealing to intruders. Plus, they're battery-powered and require no installation, making them perfect for temporary living situations.
Clever Fake Techniques: Beware of Dog Sign
Sometimes, humour is your best defence. If you don't have a guard dog, but you want to make potential burglars think twice, invest in a "Beware of Dog" sign. It's a playful way to send a message – intruders beware, you've got a fearsome Fido guarding your property.
Just remember to keep it light-hearted; you don't want your landlord thinking you've transformed your rental property into a canine sanctuary.
Reinforce Entry Points in Your Rental Property
One of the first steps in securing your rental property is reinforcing the entry points, such as doors and windows. While many landlords invest in quality locks and deadbolts, it's a good idea to discuss additional security measures with them.
For doors, consider adding a strike plate or reinforcing metal plates to strengthen the doorframe. Upgrading to smart locks can provide added security and convenience.
When it comes to windows, ensure they have secure locks, and if not, ask your landlord to install them. If your windows slide, consider adding security bars or dowels to prevent them from being forced open.
Get to Know Your Neighbors
Building a strong rapport with your neighbors can significantly boost your home security. A close-knit community is often the first line of defence against potential intruders.
With these strategies in place, you can enjoy the comfort of home sweet ‘rented’ home without the stress of security concerns.
Start by introducing yourself when you move in and exchange contact information with your neighbours so you can stay in touch. Creating a neighborhood watch group can help everyone in the community look out for each other, sharing any suspicious activity or concerns promptly.
You can even offer to keep an eye on each other's properties when one neighbor is away, providing extra security.
Secure Sliding Doors and Windows
Sliding glass doors and windows are vulnerable entry points for burglars.
To safeguard these areas, consider installing security bars or dowels in the tracks of sliding doors and windows. These simple additions prevent them from being forced open, making it significantly more challenging for intruders to gain access.
Reinforcing the glass with window film is an affordable and effective option. It obscures the view from the outside, deterring potential burglars from scouting your valuables or assessing if anyone is home.
Renters Insurance: A Must for Rental Properties
While not a physical security measure, renters’ insurance is a crucial component of your overall security plan. It provides financial protection for your belongings in case of theft, damage, or other unforeseen events.
Renters insurance typically covers personal property, liability protection, and additional living expenses if you're temporarily displaced from your rental. It's an affordable investment that ensures your peace of mind, with costs varying depending on factors like location, coverage amount, and your deductible.
Taking an inventory of your belongings and documenting their value is essential; this information will be helpful if you need to file a claim.
Conclusion
As a renter, your home security doesn't have to be a compromise between safety and flexibility. You can protect your rental property and your peace of mind with these practical and budget-friendly tips.
From wireless cameras to friendly "Beware of Dog" signs, there are plenty of creative ways to safeguard your temporary abode. Just remember to keep things light-hearted, stay on good terms with your landlord, and maintain a neighbourly connection.
