Landlords have a responsibility to keep their properties secure. Keeping tenants safe and giving them peace of mind should be a priority. This will lead to increased tenant satisfaction and help attract future tenants to the property.
The contract between the landlord and agency should highlight any of the following responsibilities that a landlord wishes to be acted upon on behalf of both parties. They should also adhere to local regulations regarding property security.
How landlords can keep a property secure
Security
Secure any external entryways with high-quality locks, such as deadbolts, and ensure all windows have proper locking mechanisms. External doors should ideally be made of solid, heavy-duty material to prevent breakage. In addition, burglar alarms are a popular option and assure tenants that safety is a landlord's first priority. All of these are good ways of lowering insurance premiums.
Tenants living in blocks may also feel safer if their doors have chain locks or peepholes and an intercom system. Then, they can choose who they let into the building and who they open their doors to.
Security cameras could also be installed in shared spaces such as hallways, stairwells, and entry points. These cameras are not too expensive to buy and will give tenants peace of mind that they are being monitored. Otherwise, monitored alarm systems could also be an option.
Access
Key access should be handled with the utmost caution. The distribution of keys should be a well-oiled process involving only authorised individuals, such as the property managers, landlords, and tenants to whom the keys will go.
Access to entrances and exits should be kept clear. This means freeing them from any obstructions, such as hedges and shrubbery, which criminals could use to conceal themselves.
Lighting
What's the first sign that a person isn't in their property? The lights are off. Lighting does much more for security than many may initially think. A light that illuminates the front entrance via a motion sensor when people arrive at the building would be a good option.
Implementing exterior lighting in pathways surrounding the property and entrances could be all it takes to deter intruders. This is one of the cheapest and easiest ways of doing this, and it could help tenants feel safe.
Fire safety
Keeping properties secure isn't just about protecting the exterior—fires could threaten tenants' lives inside a building. Installing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms safeguards against this. However, they must be regularly tested and maintained to ensure they work effectively.
Maintenance
Perform routine inspections to identify and address potential security issues, such as broken locks, damaged windows, or faulty security systems. This should be completed in addition to any mandatory checks for the property.
How tenants can keep a property secure
Report issues
Tenants play a crucial role in maintaining the security of a rental property. If a tenant discovers an issue or has any specific security concerns, they must inform the landlord immediately. This can include, but is not limited to, broken locks, damaged windows, or malfunctioning security systems.
By promptly informing the landlord, tenants can take swift action to address the problem and prevent potential security breaches.
Lock doors and windows
Always lock doors and windows when leaving the property, even temporarily. This applies to those who live on the top floor of a building as much as it does to those on the ground floor.
Be aware
Tenants must do their part in looking out for themselves and others by being mindful of their surroundings. They should report any suspicious activity to their landlord or to the police. Neighbourhood watches are also still active in most places and are a viable option for reporting.
Keep track of keys
Proper key handling is imperative. Keys should be stored securely and not kept in visible locations. Losing track of them could lead to intruders if they get into the wrong hands.
Storage
Store any valuables out of sight when they are not being used. For example, laptops should not be left out for anyone to see. Consider using a safe if necessary.
Final thoughts
Open and proactive communication is key on either side of this. Tenants and landlords should maintain open communication about any security concerns. Tenants should promptly report any security concerns to their landlord, such as broken locks, damaged windows, or suspicious activity around the property. Landlords, in turn, should take these concerns seriously and address them promptly. This may involve repairing or replacing damaged fixtures, enhancing security measures, or contacting the authorities if necessary.
Tenants and landlords can collaborate to ensure the safety and security of the property by fostering a collaborative and communicative relationship.
Arthur can help you keep track of your responsibilities as a landlord. Find out more today.
