The Ultimate Guide to Apartment Safety and Security

It can be both thrilling and nerve-racking to purchase or rent a new apartment. Whether the apartment will be safe to live in might be one of your biggest concerns.

Even though many high-rise buildings have their own security, you shouldn't be too relaxed because of this. As both are types of residences, home and apartment security measures are almost similar such as installing high-quality locks and keeping windows and doors locked, there are also some advanced security features that works best for apartments.

Do you live in an apartment or planning to move into one? This blog is for you. To increase your sense of security, follow these seven specific security recommendations specially designed for apartments. However, before that lets get a clear idea on specific criminal activities that may occur in an apartment building.

Common Security Risks in Apartments in Australia

As mentioned earlier, criminal activities in apartments are a bit different from those in regular homes. Here are the usual criminal activities –

· Unauthorised Entry into Common Areas

Shared areas like parking lots, gyms, and lobbies are found in many apartment buildings in Australia. In the absence of proper safety precautions, these spaces may serve as points of entry for criminals. Poor access controls, like outdated key systems, enable unauthorised entry.

· Break-Ins Through Windows and Balconies

Burglaries are more likely to happen in apartments with accessible balconies or on lower floors. Sliding doors, unlocked windows, and poorly maintained locks are common targets for burglars. Many locals fail to see that these entry points require extra locks and security screens.

· Piggybacking and tailgating

Tailgating is the practice of an unauthorised individual following a resident into a building while evading security. In Australian apartments, this is a frequent security risk, particularly during busy times. This risk can be decreased by installing advanced features and teaching building security procedures to residents.

Top Seven Tips to Secure Your Apartment

Here's a list of seven security tips to keep your apartment safe-

1. Get your door locks updated

Most apartments that are available to rent have multiple previous renters who are shifted from time to time. Verify with the property manager or landlord whether the door locks are changed between tenants. If not, request them to change the lock and ensure rekeying services are done. The former tenants won't be stumbling around with a key in this way. If you are moving as a renter to a fresh apartment or buying it, try hiring a trusted locksmith and installing a digital door lock for your apartment for extra security.

2. Secure balcony doors and windows

The majority of apartments have balconies or other outdoor areas. A smart burglar might be able climb up your balcony and enter, so it's crucial to keep your balcony doors locked at all times. Before moving in find out if balcony doors have updated locks or not. Along with balcony, another easy entry-point for criminals can be windows. We often neglect the importance of window lock which you should avoid. So, install a new and strong lock for windows as well.

3. Make sure to have an intercom facility

Intercom systems improve security by controlling who enters your property, in addition to being convenient. In apartment buildings, there are numerous residents, and different people might come to other apartments. An intercom at the main entry door of an apartment building lets you talk to guests before letting them in. In this way, guards at the gates will be sure where the visitor is going and will be able to cross-check by contacting you via intercom.

4. Check for CCTV cameras

Setting up Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras is a clever way to keep an eye on your property all the time. Potential burglars may be blocked by outdoor cameras because they increase the likelihood that they will be caught. So, if you are looking for an apartment, try to choose one that has outdoor CCTV installed. Moreover, if you already live in one, you can install it indoors as well. The system will assist you in keeping an eye on any unauthorised movements, even while you're away.

5. Save the contact number of a nearby emergency locksmith

Accidents might happen anytime of the day and finding someone trusted to help you immediately is surely a blessing. If you have moved to an apartment recently, get the numbers of a trusted local locksmith. Make sure they provide range of customised services along with emergency facilities. For emergency locksmith in South Yarra save the contact number of South Yarra Locksmiths, a trusted name for the locals.

6. Store Valuable items out of site

Although your wall of expensive artwork or guitars may add a personal touch to your apartment, burglars will see dollar signs in these valuables. Someone might be able to see the indoors at night due to lighting. Store your most valuable items in a room away from windows. You can install a lock for that room full of valuables and get restricted keys. Also, if you shop online, don't forget to collect the parcels timely. If you keep valuable parcels at the door for a longer period, it might also attract thieves.

7. Install alarm systems in specific areas

The first advanced layer of protection for any property is an alarm system. Alerts for windows and doors as well as the ability to operate everything from a smartphone, are features of modern alarm systems. You can get alarm system installed for your apartment and make your doors and windows highly protected. If each apartment has this facility, criminal activity at one might alert everyone and ultimately stop any hazardous situation.

Conclusion

Follow these seven tips to ensure maximum protection for your apartment. Additionally, without the assistance of a reliable locksmith, no security specification is complete. A professional locksmith is essential for any situation involving emergency lockouts, cutting keys, rekeying, or installing cutting-edge security systems. Thus, to find professional locksmith at South Yarra or nearby suburbs, don't forget to contact us.