Tips To Secure Your Apartment

No matter where you live in Australia, security precautions should always be taken, especially when you move into a new home.

It is without question that apartments are safer than land houses; with swipe cards, pass codes, and security cameras, multi-unit residential buildings possess a fort-like obstacle for any would-be intruders. 

Assess your neighbours

If security is a direct concern for you, be sure to asses the neighbourhood and research local crime reports. Speaking with the developer about security systems is also a good idea.

Once you have moved into your new apartment, engage and introduce yourself to your new neighbours - the more familiar everyone is with everyone else, the more likely any security concerns will be voiced. Having a trusted neighbour who can assist you when you are away is also a bonus - it never hurts to have an extra set of eyes.

Always trust your intuition. 

Lock your doors & windows

If you live in a smaller apartment complex, or on a ground floor unit, it is imperative that all windows are closed and doors are closed and locked - no matter how safe you feel your neighbourhood or apartment complex is. If you are forgetful, contact body corporate to see if you can install automatically closing hinges on your doors. 

As the front door is your main access of entry, be sure that the doors are locked even whilst you are at home. Do not deadlock your doors from the inside if you are home incase of a fire or emergency - these locks have been proven to be a hassle in times of panic.

Check all the exterior doors or windows that lead to a common space in the building to make sure they are fixed. 

Use security systems already in place or add new ones

Generally, apartments that have a 24-hour concierge service are safer - as there is always someone at the door greeting those who arrive. 

Pass code entry systems, and doorbells keep your home safe. Most body corporates would welcome an inclusion of additional security within your own apartment - be it cameras, motion sensors or some James Bond trip-wires.
 

Use this checklist to make sure your future apartment is up to scratch:

• Make sure all windows and doors completely close without extra effort, and that all locks and hinges are functional.
• Ensure that your locks are unique to your home, and haven’t been replicated to other apartments.
• Make sure that even entrances into common areas in the apartment building can be locked and are in prime working order- if they are not, contact body corporate immediately.
• Talk to other residents and your neighbours - if you they feel unhappy about the same issue, then consider it a red-flag.
• Regularly check your locks, seals, hinges, door handles and security systems to make sure they are working as they should.