Are you getting ready to rent your first apartment? It’s an exciting time. Imagine how you’ll decorate! All of the get-togethers you’re going to have! But before you get carried away by that amazing fireplace you’ll curl up next to in the winter or the pool and clubhouse that already have you dreaming about summertime barbeques, let’s pause and focus on safety.
Yes, it’s boring. But you’ll be glad you made safety a priority once you move in and get settled. So let’s review some ways to stay safe and secure in your new apartment.
Before Moving In
When looking for apartments, be sure to take note of the security features the community provides. Apartments that are gated or have on-site security, for example, may give you peace of mind, especially if you often come home late. Speaking of coming home late, be sure to check out the lighting in the parking area and in the breezeways. Is the parking area under surveillance? Look to see if there are any cameras in the area.
As you tour the apartment itself, take note of the smoke detectors. Where are they located? Is there one in the bedroom and one in a common area, such as the kitchen? If the community has several floors, look for smoke detectors in the breezeways on each floor, as well. The smoke detectors should be fully functional. Ask the property manager how often they are checked.
Does the apartment come equipped with a fire extinguisher? If not, you might want to consider getting one after you move in. The same goes for a carbon monoxide detector, especially if the apartment has a gas stove or gas heat.
Is there a peephole or door viewer on the front door? You’ll want to be able to see who is at your door without having to open it. If the door doesn’t have something like this, ask the landlord if it would be possible to have one installed.
Getting back to that amazing pool – is it gated? Even if you don’t have a child, having the pool gated – where only residents can access it with a key card – makes the pool area that much safer. The same goes for other common areas, such as the fitness center and the laundry room.
Does the apartment have a security system? If it doesn’t, consider getting one that is free-standing (you don’t have to drill any holes in the walls) and doesn’t require installation. There are several security options you can install yourself, such as motion-activated cameras or a smart doorbell. (Get permission from your landlord or property manager before removing or installing anything.) Many security system providers require a contract, so try to find one that doesn’t – especially if you plan on moving at the end of the lease, as many of the contracts require a two or even a three-year commitment.
Finally, take note of the fire escapes and/or fire escape routes. Is it fairly straight-forward and easy to use or remember? If you are in an area prone to hurricanes or earthquakes, ask about the community’s safety plan for that, as well.
During the Move
Take some time to greet your neighbors! They will likely be curious about who is moving in, so introduce yourself. In addition to being able to recognize those who live around you, it’s a good idea to have neighbors you can go to in case of an emergency.
Get to know the comings and goings of your neighbors, as well. Getting familiar with their routines will help you determine if a noise is out of place. This will make you more comfortable, and it will help alert you when something might be wrong.
When Living Alone
Living alone for the first time is an amazing adventure! But for some of us, it can also be a little bit intimidating. Especially at night, when every tiny noise seems amplified. You’ll adjust over time, but if it helps, consider adding some white noise like a fan or use your virtual assistant device to play sounds to help you fall asleep.
A pet is also a great way to make you feel a little more secure and a little less alone. Dogs provide the added benefit (or drawback, depending on how you look at it) of barking and alerting you to noises and/or visitors. If your apartment is pet-friendly and you have the time to devote to the care of a pet, consider this option – but be aware that most apartment communities, even the pet-friendly ones, have restrictions and extra fees associated with pets, so be sure to review your lease before getting a pet.
There are some common-sense measures you need to practice routinely when living alone, such as keeping your doors locked (yes, even in a secure building) and keeping your curtains closed at night. It’s also a good idea to close and lock your windows at night, especially in a ground floor unit. Keep your car doors locked, as well.
Finally, invest in renters insurance. Renters insurance protects your personal belongings in the case of burglary or disaster, and it’s an inexpensive way to provide peace of mind. Your landlord may even require renters insurance, but even if they don’t, get it anyway.
Published April 3, 2018
