As spring starts to turn into summer, many individuals will find themselves enjoying the warmer temperatures. Nashville offers a lot great outdoor events that might keep residents away from their apartments longer than in the winter. Additionally, warmer days are celebrated by opening doors and windows to let in the breeze and save a little on the electricity bill. However, these actions, although innocent, could potentially set you up for potential theft. If you are a renter and want to safeguard your apartment from unnecessary theft, follow these tips for better protection.
- Install a Security System
Many apartment complexes offer security in the form of gated access and personnel. Very few offer hardwired or wireless options inside the actual apartment. If you are serious about protecting yourself and your assets, talk to your landlord about the option of installing a home monitoring device. There have been a lot of advancements in security and sometimes having one installed is as straightforward hanging a device without much hassle. Additionally, if you invest in a wireless security option, you might get the added benefit of controlling it remotely. Many alarm companies provide apps that provide users with the opportunity to check into their space for peace of mind.
- Utilize a Safety Deposit Box
If you keep important documents or heirlooms of sentimental value inside your apartment, you’ll want to invest in a safety deposit box. You can obtain one of these at your local bank. It adds a layer of security by keeping what matters to you most of your property in the event of a break-in. However, if you have items that you use regularly or need to access at any given time, it’s smart to invest in a safe. Just keep the passcode something simple that you can remember and don’t write it down anywhere.
- Keep Vacation Plans Off Social Media
The internet is a brilliant invention that can connect friends and family all over the world. However, many people forget that as a form of communication, their information can be accessed by those that might abuse the information. While it’s perfectly reasonable to share exciting details about your trip, don’t advertise you’re away before or during your holiday. Utilize your time away to enjoy your time off and take pictures. Once you’re back in town, you can share the exciting details about your recent excursion.
- Use Timed Lighting
Spring and summer offer a lot of outdoor activities that might keep you away from your apartment longer than in the winter. If you have access to outdoor lights and you know you will be coming back late, turn them on before you leave. Many complexes strive to keep communal areas well-lit. If you notice any of the light bulbs have gone out, let your leasing office know so they can get it fixed. Most burglaries are looking for easy opportunities to grab and go. They don’t want to be seen or identified. If your area is well-lit, you can potentially stop theft before it even happens.
- Lock Doors and Windows
It’s not often you’ll leave the house and forget to lock your front door, but many apartments offer balcony or patio access which gives you another point of entry. It doesn’t matter what floor you live on; you’ll want to ensure you keep these extra doors locked at all times. The same concept goes for windows too. Even if you think it’s impossible, lock them. Many renter’s insurance policies won’t cover the loss if it can be proven there was negligence on your part. Keeping your doors and windows secure protects you and your valuables.
- Become Friendly With Your Neighbors
There is always safety in numbers. It’s not as common these days for neighbors to get to know each other, but if you want to do the most to protect yourself and your apartment, try to strike up a friendly relationship with someone who lives around you. They can live above, below, or next to you, just as long as they are someone, you can trust. By doing so, you can help each other by looking out for anything suspicious such as unidentified guests or strange cars driving by or parking in your lot.
- Ask Questions
Sometimes burglaries aren’t as straightforward as breaking and entering. Other criminals operate by masquerading as contractors, utility workers, or another type of service. Often, these types of thieves try to take advantage of unsuspecting residents by requesting access to your property to make “repairs.” Regardless of whether or not you live in a complex or independently owned apartment, your landlord will have a process in place when it comes to dealing with maintenance issues. Most repairs and services will be brought to the attention of the occupant because they will either need you to be out of the apartment or to lock up your pets. If someone approaches you before being notified, don’t answer the door until you can get ahold of the leasing office or landlord. Additionally, keep an eye out for:
- Unmarked cars/vans
- Out of state license plates
- Workers offering specials
- Maintenance employee without an ID card
- Get Renter’s Insurance
If your landlord doesn’t already request it, you’re doing yourself a disservice by not having renters insurance. There are a lot of myths about renters insurance, but what most people don’t realize is the coverage is very comprehensive and affordable. Many insurance agents will offer policies to extend outside of the apartment and, for example, protect you in the instance someone breaks into your car. The cost of your monthly premium doesn’t have to be costly, and some start as low as $15 a month. A small price to pay for protection.
For more information about affordable and comprehensive renters insurance policies, contact Royce Williams Insurance today.
