Security Measures You Need To Make Right After Moving Into An Apartment
Once you move into a new apartment, there are a few things that you need to do right away in order to make sure that it's secure. Some measures for security can wait, while others can't. Here are a few of the measures that can't wait too long.
Peep Check
This is actually an important addition to any apartment, and you should make sure that you have one shortly after you move in. You're also going to want to make sure that it works by peering through it. If you don't have one, you should ask if you can get one installed. You need to be able to check to see who's at your door so you don't open it unless you're sure you know who it is.
Side Entrances
Apartment complexes often have extra entrances compared to houses. You'll need to check these right away since they could be a security liability. Whether it's a door connected right to your apartment or one that goes to the common area, it's worth checking to make sure that it's secure. This is because the front apartment complex door is often more secure than the one to your apartment.
If the landlord won't consent to a better lock or door if you notice disrepair, it at least helps to know that the area is a weak spot so that you're aware of it. If you don't mind paying for the upgrade yourself, your landlord may also consent to it. It could only take a new lock or a better strike plate to help with the whole situation.
Lock Change
You have no idea who was in your apartment previously with any kind of absolute certainty. Even if you meet them, or if the landlord or someone else tells you about them, this isn't going to give you the certainty that they didn't keep a key. They could always sell that key to someone else looking to break into your apartment, for example.
That's why you need to replace the locks quickly if at all possible. You also shouldn't be deterred by landlords that claim that they've replaced the locks since they often have motivation to just rotate one lock after another between apartments in the complex since it's cheaper and easier for them.
The quicker you solve any potential security issues, the better. You don't want to end up with a problem that could lead to a break-in because you waited too long after moving in.
For more information, contact Venus & Mars Locksmith or a similar company.