As a property owner, you are responsible for the safety of your renters. When people move into your South Florida rental property, they expect safety and security for themselves and their possessions. This means that you must ensure that the property is protected against break-ins, fire, and other unfortunate events.
By taking your tenants’ safety seriously, there will be a better likelihood of them turning into long-term tenants. Aside from this, ensuring the safety of your rental property increases its value and attracts more tenants down the line. Also, when you are leaving home on holiday, you need to keep it secured from burglars. Learn how to keep your home safe during the holidays from burglars.
So, what can you do? Let’s take a look at nine simple ways to ensure the safety and security of your rental property:
#1 Secure the Doors
What’s the first line of defense in your investment property? The doors.
Doors typically have single-cylinder deadbolts, but you should consider replacing them with double-cylinder deadbolts, especially if your doors are next to windows. Double-cylinder deadbolts prevent burglars from reaching their arms through the nearby window and unlocking the door.
You should also consider installing solid wood doors instead of hollow wood doors, as these are harder to break. In addition, encourage your tenants to use door jammers whenever they’re indoors.
#2 Install an Intercom or Smart Doorbell
Do you own a multi-family property or a condominium? Consider installing an intercom to allow tenants to know exactly who’s waiting to be let in. This prevents them from providing access to someone potentially dangerous. If possible, purchase a video intercom system so tenants can verify the visitor’s identity. Ask your property manager to help you hire an intercom installation service company that can be trusted to fix issues immediately.
If you own a single-family home, trade your traditional doorbell for a smart doorbell such as the Ring Video Doorbell or the Nest Hello. Smart doorbells allow you to record security footage — perfect if you want to catch “porch pirates”!
#3 Install a Smart Lock
Modern locks no longer require keys. With smart locks, tenants simply need to input a unique code to enter their unit.
Smart locks are an excellent choice for short-term rentals, as you won’t have to worry about replacing the locks every time a renter moves out. All you need to do is to change the code to ensure that past tenants won’t be able to get into the property.
Plus, installing smart locks saves you time — especially if your tenants tend to misplace their keys. That way, you won’t be bothered every time they lock themselves out of the house.
#4 Add Outdoor Lights
What’s the best way to deter a burglar? Lights.
Burglaries often occur at night because burglars take advantage of the darkness. To deter them from invading your investment property, add a lot of exterior lights. You should also consider adding motion-sensing lighting that can detect even the slightest movement from every direction.
Don’t forget to illuminate the front door, too. This helps your tenant feel safe as they arrive home at night. If you’re worried about energy efficiency, you can always choose solar-powered options.
#5 Install a Security Camera
Security cameras aren’t cheap, but they will make your tenants feel safer. Installing a security camera is an excellent way to ensure that you have evidence in case anything were to happen in your rental home. Security cameras record footage of the incident, which authorities can use to aid the investigation.
If security cameras are too expensive for now, you can install a dummy security camera instead. It won’t be able to record, but it is enough to deter intruders from breaking into the rental property.
#6 Secure the Windows
Windows usually have locking mechanisms, but that doesn’t mean they’re unbreakable. Burglars can still break into your rental property by breaking the glass. Hence, it would be wise to install additional locks, such as a sliding door lock or a steel bolt. Be sure to secure every window, especially the ones on the first and second floors.
You can also ask your tenant if they’re interested in having bars installed on their windows. Keep in mind, however, that many tenants won’t like this idea because of the way it looks.
#7 Don’t Forget to Collect Keys
The keys to your rental property shouldn’t be treated as a souvenir for your tenants! When your tenant moves out, you must ask them to return their keys — including the spares. Even though your tenants are trustworthy, you should still play it safe. The last thing you want to happen is for a former tenant to suddenly show up at your rental home.
Take the time to meet your tenants on move-out day. If you’ve hired a property management company, they can collect the keys on your behalf.
#8 Screen Your Tenants
So far, the tips we’ve shared involve intruders. However, have you ever considered that your tenants could be the dangerous ones?
If you’re managing a multi-family property, it’s paramount that you screen your tenants. You’ll want to rent out the property to people that you are genuinely comfortable with. Aside from trusting your gut, you should always ask for references from their former landlords and check if they have a criminal history.
Remember, you’re responsible for ensuring the safety of all the tenants on your property. Don’t make the mistake of welcoming a potentially dangerous individual into the community.
#9 Hire a Property Management Company
A property management company can enhance security and provide you peace of mind, especially if you live far from your rental property. A property manager can check regularly on your property to ensure that it is in pristine condition year-round. They can also conduct safety checks to pinpoint vulnerable areas, as well as visit the property while it is vacant. This is particularly helpful if your rental home is occupied only during certain seasons.
By partnering with a property management company like Luxury Property Care, you can protect your tenants and your property for years to come. If you’re interested in learning more, feel free to contact us at (561) 944 – 2992 or complete our contact form.
