Apartment Security: A Guide + Protection Tips for 2023

Apartment security is anything related to the safety and security of your apartment and premises. Many states legally require apartment complexes to protect tenants and guests from foreseeable danger. For example, if a crime occurs in or nearby an apartment complex, the owner is obligated to warn their tenants.

When it comes to apartment security, there are several features to add to your list, including a security alarm, apartment door security, driveway gates, keycard access for an on-site fitness center or pool, security cameras, motion sensors and lights, locked mailboxes for tenants, and more.

Continue reading to learn more about the ins and outs of apartment security and how to increase security in your own apartment!

Pros and Cons of Apartments with Security

As with anything in life, there are pros and cons that come along with extra apartment security.

Pros of Apartments with Security

• Personal Safety: Everyone deserves to feel safe in their home, and nothing provides peace of mind quite like security in apartments.

• Mail Safety: The safety of your mail is another integral part of safe apartment living. If you live in a large complex, ask if there’s a staff member that collects and secures the mail for tenants and how the system works.

• Parking Security: Look for secured entrances and entry gates to the complex with keycode access.

Cons of Apartments with Security

• Increased Costs: Apartment buildings with security are often more expensive, considering the added expense of security staff, system upgrades, and other safety measures.

• Unreliability: You may not know who monitors the apartment-friendly security camera on the property or guests entering the building.

• False Sense of Security: Do your due diligence to determine the efficacy of the safety features, when they were updated, and what type of crime occurs in your area.

How to Find Apartments with Security

If you've decided apartments with security are for you, here's how to find the perfect place.

1. Start Your Search Early

Starting your apartment search as early as possible is crucial when looking at security features. You can also call apartment complexes and property owners to inquire about upcoming vacancies with security features.

Seasonality can also impact how competitive it is. For example, the winter season is usually the slow season in most markets, and rents are sometimes cheaper.

2. Be Ready to Strike Fast

Apartments with security features go fast. So come prepared to sign a lease with proof of employment, pay stubs, bank statements, and landlord references. Check out our 11 forms you need to rent an apartment guide to find out more about what you need to prepare for your prospective landlord visit.

3. Know Where to Look

Knowing where to find an apartment with security features is essential. Apartment List makes it easy to narrow down your wish list of features, including security. Or, you can look for updated and new apartment complexes in urban areas, as they're more likely to have desirable security features than older buildings.

4. Be on the Lookout for Rental Scams

Unfortunately, rental scams and rental fraud are common, and people often take advantage of unsuspecting renters. Keep your guard up and note deals that are too good to be true, promising all the security features you want at a rock-bottom price.

Although apartment application fees are the norm, do not pay upfront just to tour an apartment. You should also avoid anyone who asks you to pay a large deposit before signing a lease or seeing the apartment.

How to Increase Your Apartment Security

Even if you find a place with safety features, there are several ways you can increase your apartment security.

Secure Your Doors and Windows

Make sure your windows and doors, particularly sliding doors, are secure. If your unit is older, your property manager may be open to paying for updates, including new windows. Or you can purchase security bar locks or similar gadgets. They're relatively affordable and can be installed without tools.

Get to Know Your Neighbors

Getting to know your neighbors can help keep the entire complex safer. Take the time to say hello to neighbors, make small talk, and share critical information. For example, if you notice a stranger in the parking lot, mention it to someone leaving so they can stay diligent.

When your neighbors know who you are and your habits, they're more likely to notice when something is wrong.

Ask About Installing Your Own Security

If your landlord or property management isn't willing to update your apartment safety features, you may consider asking, “can you put a security system in an apartment?”

For example, you may be able to install your own security camera or extra lock. Leaving lights on when you're gone and asking a neighbor to check on your apartment while on vacation can help keep an eye out for your safety and well-being.

Explore Renter's Insurance

It's wise to look into renter's insurance to cover damage from fire, mold, vandalism, theft, and more. Some policies also extend apartment protection beyond your property. For example, if your belongings in your storage unit or car were stolen, your renter's insurance may cover it.

Final Thoughts

Prioritizing personal safety and peace of mind is essential for apartment hunting. Find your perfect place and find all the apartment complex security features you’re looking for with Apartment List.

Ready to prioritize apartment security in your apartment hunt? Just start our quiz!