Apartments can be tempting targets for burglars due to the wealth of valuables available within such limited spaces, but renters have ways of protecting themselves and preventing break-ins with security devices installed on their doors.
Professional locksmiths recommend installing a deadbolt lock as the first step. This device helps deter break-ins by requiring that only specific keys can retract its bolt.
Install a Deadbolt
Even in the safest apartment buildings, break-ins can happen. Though crime has decreased overall, many renters still feel unprotected in their apartment buildings. There are steps you can take to make your apartment more secure; one effective method would be upgrading the door lock.
If your apartment already features a standard lock, requesting or installing a deadbolt will significantly enhance its security by making entry more difficult for burglars. For maximum effectiveness, select one made from solid metal without exposed screws that is more resistant to forceful attacks; these locks also typically feature longer bolts than regular ones making it more difficult for thieves to break in.
Before installing the new lock, carefully examine your current door frame for any signs of damage or weakening. If the wood is rotting or has other issues, consider asking your landlord to replace it instead of trying to repair it yourself. Furthermore, having your lock reinforced with a tracker block could prevent thieves from climbing on doors or pulling them open.
Once your frame has been thoroughly examined, you can start installing the deadbolt. Position a paper template on the door and mark holes for both bolt and strike plate before drilling three holes centered and off to either side – you may use the screws that came with your lock, or purchase longer ones from your hardware store if available. Finally, screw in both bolt and strike plate using either their original hardware screws or any longer ones you purchase from hardware stores.
As with any lock purchase, be sure to read and follow all instructions provided with it for any specific measurements or any possible problems with installation. If they’re unclear, seek help from an expert at your local hardware store – they may recommend models compatible with both the existing door frame and lock of your apartment unit.
If it isn’t permissible to alter your door lock, an alternative might be installing a door security bar. These metal bars are installed behind your door and serve to stop burglars from forcing entry; yet are easy to take off whenever necessary. They come in various lengths that fit both inward-swinging doors as well as outward-swinging ones.
Install a Peephole
Putting in a peephole in your apartment can be both crime-deterring and security enhancing; not only can it give you peace of mind by seeing who is outside before opening your door; you can even use one as an identification system for delivery drivers or pet sitters visiting.
Installing a peephole can be a relatively straightforward DIY task that doesn’t require special tools or skills. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for its proper installation. Start by marking the center of your door on the interior side. Drill with a smaller bit until the hole has just enough room for your new peephole before switching over to larger spade bits or hole saws for finishing touches.
Once you’ve drilled through the outer fiberglass layer, make sure that you assemble your peephole securely by threading its lens and barrel together using screws or an Allen key. A bead of silicone sealant will ensure that its viewer seals tightly against your door. You may also consider digital peepholes which feature camera footage, doorbell rings and intercom systems; these digital units provide even more effective burglary prevention as they send alerts directly to your smartphone when someone attempts to gain entry.
Note that not every landlord will permit these types of permanent home security improvements. Unfortunately, burglars may easily break in through open windows or from below by knocking out doors and breaking through weak points in doors and gaining entry via window frames or the ground below. Therefore, it’s essential that you assess weak points on your apartment door and inquire with your landlord as to if these can be reinforced to keep yourself and others safe.
If your landlord will not allow for you to install a deadbolt or peephole, consider installing a door brace or security bar as an additional layer of security on an inward-swinging door. These devices add another level of protection by forcing thieves to break through the frame in order to gain entry.
Install a Keypad
Apartment dwellers know that home security should always be their top priority, no matter the crime rates in their region. Luckily, there are simple measures available to them to protect their apartments against intruders – from installing deadbolts and door security apps, to deadbolt installations – that won’t break the bank or require hours of complex installation processes.
First, evaluate whether your apartment’s existing lock is secure enough. A weak deadbolt sends burglars a clear message that security is unimportant to you; if renting, speak to your landlord about upgrading to a stronger deadbolt; otherwise look into temporary solutions such as lock braces or sash jammers for temporary solutions.
Installing a keypad is another great way to safeguard your apartment, enabling you to gain entry without unlocking or carrying around keys. There are keypads with PIN codes as well as ones compatible with smartphones; property managers may assign codes directly to residents so they know who enters and from which apartment.
Install a security strike plate – these come for both wooden and metal doors – to help deter kick-ins by making prying open of door frames more difficult. They feature long anchor screws with deep strike boxes where bolt locks into place securely.
If your landlord refuses to install a security strike plate, try replacing existing screws with longer ones; these are often of similar size but more difficult to unscrew and could prevent your door from being kicked open by intruders.
Improving apartment door security can be an excellent investment that pays dividends in terms of both safety and peace of mind. If you’re concerned about the safety of your apartment, talk with your landlord about some easy, affordable upgrades that could increase security – they may surprise you at just how far they will go to ensure their tenants’ wellbeing!
Replace the Lock
If you rent an apartment, it is essential that you do everything possible to protect its doors. Even the simplest upgrades can help make it harder for criminals to break in; installing a deadbolt lock is one such inexpensive upgrade that will provide your apartment with increased protection; high quality Grade 1 deadbolts serve as deterrents against attempted entry.
Installation of a strike plate can also provide an effective means of strengthening apartment door security, helping prevent kick-ins. A strike plate typically made of wood or metal needs to be secured to the frame of the door before use; long anchor screws with deep so-called strike boxes will add even greater strength, helping prevent kick-ins.
Before making any security upgrades or alterations to an apartment door, always seek permission from your landlord first. In most cases they will permit adding a new lock as long as a copy of its key is given back. If in doubt about what’s allowed or required in your local laws and with your landlord.
Renters may benefit from installing a portable door barricade to protect their apartment without leaving holes in the floor. Setting this brace up quickly and easily provides extra protection from force attacks or break-in attempts.
Apartment dwellers also have another option available to them; investing in a full-fledged security system installed professionally will offer much greater protection than an apartment door security measure alone, alerting you of any threats of either human or animal nature. Vivint security systems feature comprehensive features designed to provide safety for you and your family.