We all want to feel safe and secure at home. However, when you are renting and don’t necessarily own the property, certain considerations might need to be made. In this article, we’ll share a few tips for renters to help with basic home security.
Get sturdy locks
When it comes to basic home security, one of the first places to look should obviously be to check the integrity of the door locks. This should include all doors and entrances leading into the home, such as side doors, basement doors, and even garage doors.
If the door locks look old, worn, or outdated then it may be time to replace them. Even if the lock is newer, it still might be inadequate which is why it’s important to check the integrity of the locking mechanism. Consider purchasing a deadbolt lock to replace any standard-issue spring bolt locks.
Deadbolts are studier because they are set back into the door 1 inch, as opposed to spring bolts which are only set back 1/2 inch. Believe it or not, that little extra bit can actually make a huge difference in terms of keeping out intruders.
Check windows
In addition to checking the integrity of the door locks, you should also spend time checking the locking mechanisms on the windows. This includes those windows above the first floor. It’s important to note that some sliding glass doors on patios and decks have notoriously simple locks built in which can be easy to manipulate or break open.
If you can’t switch the lock, then one cheap way to add an extra layer of protection would be to place a wooden dowel or rod on the inside track of the sliding door. This will block the door from being opened from the outside.
Install proper lighting
Another cost-effective way to add an extra layer of protection to your property would be to ensure the area is well-lit near entrances and pathways. This could include installing motion sensor lights for the driveway and walkways leading up to the house. It could also include motion lights near the garage. Motion detecting lights can be a huge deterrent for burglars.
Engage with neighbors
One basic home security option that can be totally free, is to simply engage with your neighbors on a regular basis. Good neighbors are always willing to share local news and update each other on any questionable or suspicious activity around the neighborhood. This can be done face-to-face as you’re walking around the neighborhood or even online through a community-watch group or app.
DIY home security
If you’re ready to step it up a notch, then look into having a home security system installed. According to ring.com, there are a variety of home alarm systems on the market these days, ranging from state-of-the-art professionally installed systems to those you can do yourself in under an hour. Some systems will allow you to handle your own security monitoring while others might require a monthly subscription if you want to have the pros in charge.
If you’re looking to install a home security system, it’s probably a good idea to check with your landlord first. Your landlord might have specific recommendations or requirements you have to follow.
Add Fake Security Cameras Both Indoors And Outdoors
After you get permission from the landlord, make sure to add security cameras inside and outside the house. If you do not have enough budget to add high-end security systems everywhere in your home, it is best to use fake cameras as well. For instance, you can add both original and fake cameras in between to get peace of mind and a sense of safety.
By seeing the cameras in every place, the chances of burglars breaking into your house will be less. Even if some thieves broke into your residence, you can lodge a complaint against them using the recorded footage as evidence.
Use Durable Safes For Storing Documents
If you often have to keep confidential documents, money, or other valuables in your house, it is better to acquire durable safes. For instance, there are gun safes in order to store firearms safely, which come with multiple locking systems.
Similar to that, there are separate cash management safes, home safes, document safes, and many more. Hence, choose the best and high-quality safe which is ideal for your purposes.
Secure The Garage
Another best way to ensure the protection of your home is to secure your garage. Make sure to install sturdy doors in your garage, and you can either use manual or smart locks. However, as per our experience, it is better to use a high-end smart locking system because manual locks can be cracked easily.
If there are any expensive supplies inside the garage, make sure to cover the windows and add sturdy cabinets to store small things securely. In addition to that, close all the doors both inside and outside the garage. Other ways to secure the garage are to install a home automation system and a driveway alarm.
Deter House Fires
In order to protect your home from fires, install fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and CO detectors throughout your house, especially in the kitchen. If you want, you can also contact a skilled chimney inspection officer prior to utilizing the fireplace. In addition to that, it is also better to make some changes to the house’s layout to harmonize it with the fire exit plan.
Shut Off The Wi-Fi
Your home Wi-Fi system is an easy way to obtain your personal information, such as bank passwords, confidential files, and other sensitive data. If you do not secure your Wi-Fi network, then hackers can access all that information.
Here are some of the best ways you can use to make your Wi-Fi more safe and free from vulnerable hacking attacks:
- Permit either WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) or a WPA2 encryption system.
- Protect the wireless router and utilize a firewall.
- Change the username and conceal your home network.
- Launch antivirus and anti-malware software.
Bottom Line
Home is where one can take rest and live with peace of mind. So, it is vital to keep it safe from various dangers at any cost. Here, in this list, we have included different ways you can protect your house from burglars and even natural accidents.
