Security is a paramount concern for landlords and tenants alike, influencing everything from rental desirability to insurance premiums. As a landlord, ensuring your property is secure not only protects your investment but also makes it more attractive to potential tenants. Here’s how you can effectively bolster the security of your rental properties.
Start with Strong Foundations
Begin by ensuring all external doors have robust locks—preferably deadlocks, known for their resistance to forced entry. Ground floor windows and other accessible areas should also have secure locks. Regularly check these fixtures to ensure they remain in good working order, maintaining a solid first line of defence.
Illuminate Your Property
Adequate lighting is a powerful deterrent against burglaries. Installing motion-sensor lights around the property’s exterior, especially near entry points and dark areas, discourages potential intruders and provides comfort to tenants returning home after dark.
Install Modern Alarm Systems
Contemporary alarm systems offer features such as remote monitoring, contact alerts, and integration with smart home devices. These systems are a significant draw for security-conscious tenants and can potentially reduce insurance premiums, adding value to your property.
Secure the Perimeter
For properties with gardens or yards, ensure they’re secured with fencing that’s difficult to climb and in good repair. Sturdy, lockable gates are essential. In more vulnerable areas, additional features like barbed wire or anti-climb spikes can enhance security.
Embrace Smart Technology
Smart home security devices, such as cameras, smart locks, and video doorbells, provide real-time and recorded footage of property access. These can be controlled via smartphones, offering peace of mind through continuous surveillance and control.
Commit to Regular Maintenance
Security equipment requires regular checks and maintenance to remain effective. Schedule inspections and perform necessary upgrades or repairs to keep everything in top condition.
By taking these steps, landlords not only safeguard their property but also enhance its appeal to prospective tenants. Implementing robust security measures can lead to quicker rentals, higher tenant satisfaction, and ultimately, a more profitable rental business. At Sawyer & Co, we’re here to support you in making your rental properties secure and desirable.