Change Locks After Moving into an Apartment

Homeowners need to focus on the first floor for burglary prevention. This is the usual entry point for burglars. Here are some steps to take to ensure the safety starts on the first floor:

• Add deadbolt locks if you do not already have them.
• Trim trees that can provide easy access to second-floor windows. Thieves will want access to the master bedroom, since jewelry, cash and credit cards are usually kept there.
• Check basement windows and doors to make sure they are secured.
• Cover basement windows with decorative glass film or coatings. Low, thorny shrubbery outdoors is another deterrent.

Thieves may bypass homes located on corners, since they have more traffic. If your home is in the middle of a block, make sure you have outdoor lighting, including motion detector lights that go on when someone walks by. In apartments, renters should change their locks immediately after moving into a unit. The previous tenant may have a copy of the key. But first check your lease and talk with your building manager or landlord. It could be the locks already were changed. Townhouses can be easy targets, because they often have privacy fences and secluded gardens. These are perfect spots for burglars to enter undetected. Consider adding door and window sensors to these areas. If you live in a rural area or quiet block, consider asking police for extra patrols or forming a neighborhood watch group. These areas may get less attention by authorities otherwise.