One of the things landlords must prioritize is providing safety to their renters. It is crucial to ensure safety as no matter how affordable the rent is, you will not have renters if your property is unsafe. So, you should also focus on security as part of creating a habitable environment for the residents.
In this article, Service Star Realty will help you understand the various tips to secure your rental property, ensuring that you create a perfect living environment for your renters and keep them safe.
Tips to Secure Your Rental Property
Secure Your Rental’s Entryways
Since doors are the prime access points for burglars, you must invest in solid security systems and quality locks. You should purchase deadbolt locks as they hardly give way to picking or forced entry and are safe.
You can also spend on keyless entry systems since you can easily change the passcodes when a new renter occupies the unit and will not need physical keys anymore. This helps you gain better control of the property on who has access to the rental.
Boost Your Window and Sliding Door Security
Windows and sliding doors can be vulnerable points and easy for intruders to get through. Make sure that solid locks are installed and window bars are present to further strengthen the windows and make it hard for trespassers to barge in.
For sliding doors, ensure that locks are in place, including sturdy rods that limit forced entries. Additionally, you should perform a regular property inspection to assess the security of windows and sliding doors to ensure their proper working condition.
Set Up Sufficient Lighting
An excellent way to deter burglars is to have enough lighting, especially in the dim areas of the property. Motion sensor lighting is also a good investment as it lessens the potential areas where intruders may hide. You must place these lights near the access systems and parking areas to alert residents.
Strengthen the security system in your rental unit
You must set up additional security systems that prevent access to non-residents such as keyless systems and access cards. It keeps the renters safe and there will not be issues of lost physical keys to attend to. If the passwords are forgotten, it is also easy to change them.
As another layer of security, you can also invest in intercoms since residents will have a way to verify guests they invited over. Keeping the unit safe by spending on these security systems pay off in terms of peace of mind and inspire renters to stay longer or sign up for a lease renewal.
Make sure to guide your renters in using the security systems to keep their properties safe from intruders. They must know how to change the passcodes for more security and report any malfunction so it gets fixed right away.
Mind The Landscaping
Burglars attempting to access your rental may plan in advance by observing your property and may notice that the outdoors are unkempt. It is easier for them to break in if your rental appears to be vacant.
Additionally, keeping shrubs untrimmed may also become a good hiding spot. Trim trees and bushes to limit coverage of intruders. You must also check for broken fences and gates to ensure that access points are protected at all times.
Develop a Strong Security Procedure
As a landlord, it is crucial to develop security systems and make your renters aware about it through a solid security process.
Your security procedure can include these items:
● Reminders for renters to always lock the doors and windows before leaving the property
● Providing emergency contact information to the renters when they need to report property issues
● Asking for approval before making copies of the physical keys
● Performing regular property inspection and maintenance of the landscaping, lighting, and security systems around the unit
● Requesting renters to report maintenance issues that impact their security such as damaged doors, broken locks, and malfunctioning alarm systems and lights.
● Ensuring that locks are altered or passcodes changed when a renter moves out
Following this list creates peace of mind for all parties along with security. You can also maintain the value of your property by ensuring damages are repaired and your unit is secure.
Considerations Before Deciding To Upgrade Security Systems
If you are planning to update your security features, make sure to communicate about it with your renters first to avoid potential conflicts. A good practice is to include an addendum in your rental agreement that supports new security features you may want to undertake during the tenancy period.
Bottom Line
Securing your rental property is vital and following the above tips can offer greater protection to your tenants. By paying attention to your tenant’s security, you can show your commitment to remain accountable and provide a habitable living space.
Do you need help with security and maintenance of your rental property? Contact Service Star Realty today!
Our team of experts can provide best property management services, helping you ensure the well-being of your renters and your rental property.
Service Star Realty
2929 East Camelback Road #119, Phoenix, AZ 85016
(480) 426-9696
