When it comes to home security, most people think of protecting suburban homes with white picket fences and SUVs in the driveway. However, more than just suburbanites in large houses need to protect themselves. Those living in condominiums and apartment complexes are in just as big a need for home security. Don’t let the fact that many of these complexes have security cameras and patrolling guards fool you. You need to take matters into your own hands and be responsible for the safety of your family, yourself, and your property. Burglaries and home invasions affect everyone.
When you first move into your apartment or condo, you should change the locks on all of the doors, including any storage area that you might have. Occasionally, people may return to the property to steal if the keys still work. It is unfortunate but true.
If you are renting, you will need to speak to the property manager about this, but there should be little trouble in getting the locks switched. The maintenance crew will probably even do it for you. If you change the locks yourself, you still need to give one key to property management in case of emergency.
Condominium owners, you will have to change out the locks yourself, but this affords you a greater choice in the type of lock you get. You might opt for the traditional lock and perhaps a deadbolt. Spending a bit more can get you a keyless entry lock that uses a special number code to open, or you might even decide to go hi-tech and get something that requires your fingerprint to unlock. Whatever type of lock you want, do some research and make sure you get one of the better brands, something that has a good track record.
Check the locks on your windows as well and make sure they are in good working condition. This includes the sliding glass door that so many people have on their balconies. These locks are easy to break. The best thing you can do to secure a sliding glass door is simply take a length of wood, such as part of a mop handle, and put it in the runners. A thief would have to break the window to get inside then, and not many thieves want to make that much noise.
Make sure you and your neighbors get to know one another on a first name basis. If someone knows, or feels they know you as a neighbor, then they are far more likely to take action if they see someone who doesn’t belong trying to enter your home. If there is a neighborhood watch of some kind, then you should join, or at least get to know the members.
Look around the area of your home and complex for poor lighting as well as places that could conceal would be thieves and criminals. Report these to the HOA (Homeowner’s Association) or property manager right away.
Most important, stay on your toes and constantly look for other ways to be more secure.
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