As your rental property is one of your biggest assets, keeping it safe and secure at all times is incredibly important. As a landlord, it is your responsibility to provide a safe space for your tenants where they can live comfortably without worrying about their security. Which is something that can be missed if you're a new or DIY landlord.
With this in mind, you should take every precautionary measure to maintain your property’s security. This can help prevent intruders from entering, ensure the safety of your tenants, and avoid the unnecessary expenses that come with a security issue.
At Taylor Street Property Management, we believe security is paramount. So, we have put together a few tips to help ensure the safety of your rental home:
Light Your Property’s Exterior
By investing in external lighting, you can discourage would-be intruders from going near your property in the middle of the night. The best outdoor lighting fixtures to keep your rental home safe are motion sensor lighting. This type of lighting is a deterrent to intruders as no matter what they do, they will trigger the lights when they get close the property.
It’s crucial to install motion sensor lighting at all entrances of your rental property, especially in those inconspicuous locations that intruders may take advantage of.
Invest in a Security System
Security systems are one of the most essential and useful investments you can make to keep your rental unit secured.
It can also add value to your rental home as many prospective tenants would prefer to rent a property that has a reliable security system. In this case, you could also reasonably increase your rental rate to compensate for your additional security, which is a great way to earn bigger returns.
If you already have a security system in place, make sure to teach new tenants how to use the system. Some tenants would want to have their own access codes to maintain their privacy. But you can have your own access code so you can enter the premises in case of an emergency. Make sure to have a mutual agreement on landlord entry to prevent any issues and include everything in the lease contract.
If you don’t have a security system yet, it’s about time to invest in one. There’s a variety of security systems available in the market today, and some can be installed easily without the need to drill holes into the walls, helping you to minimize intrusion and tenant complaints.
Discuss your options with the providers and make sure to thoroughly understand how it works. Moreover, you have to be present during the installation of the security system so all your questions and concerns will be addressed immediately.
Secure Every Entrance
To add extra security to your main entrances, it’s recommended to install a double-cylinder deadbolt, especially if you have a window near the door. This will prevent the intruder from reaching in through the window and opening the door from inside.
In addition, it’s best to use solid wood or metal doors to further secure your rental property from burglars as they will give potential intruders a hard time getting into the property.
Secure Every Window
Windows are typically designed so that they cannot be opened from the outside. But some windows can easily be broken or smashed open, making it easy to access your rental property.
To avoid this, you need to make sure that your windows are also made of sturdy material that cannot be easily broken. Moreover, installing locks on your windows can give burglars a hard time trying to break into your premises.
Post Security Signs
It’s always a good idea to post security signs in prominent areas where unwanted visitors and potential burglars can see. By making it known that your property is protected by security measures, giving would-be intruders second thoughts about breaking into the premises.
Keep in mind that it’s best to keep your signs generic and avoid including the make, model, brand, or other manufacturer details of your security system. Putting too much information can help burglars to find a way to bypass your security system.
Insure Your Rental Property
It’s very important to make sure that your property has sufficient coverage against theft to avoid spending your own money to pay for repairs needed to any property damage caused by burglars. Most insurance will also replace the stolen belongings inside and outside the property, which is a great way to maintain a good relationship with your tenants and manange important repair concerns.
It’s important to document all of the furnishings in your property, as well as your tenants’ possessions, to make it easier to claim insurance when the need arises. You should take note of the important details, including the name and address of the manufacturer, model name and number, serial number, material, build, color, and if possible, keep a photograph of the valuables.
Bottom Line
If your property is occupied by a tenant, make sure to check the local law and your rental agreement before you decide to upgrade your security. Make the necessary arrangements with your tenant to update the locks if it’s really needed.
If you’re in doubt, it’s best to work with a professional rental property manager to avoid any legal issues, as property management companies are more knowledgeable of the law. If you need a property manager in Phoenix, contact Taylor Street Property Management at (602) 603-9777.
