5 things people renting should know about security
Private renting has been on the rise across the UK and for many people it can be very confusing when it comes to things you can and can’t do around the security of your rented property.
Landlords can have some fairly strict rules on amendments or changes to the property, leaving many people not knowing their security options. However there are a number of things you can do during and before you move in to help ensure your property is secure.
Request a change of locks
It’s important to know who has a key when you move into a new property, although landlords will request keys to be returned by previous tenants, you can never be too sure if they’ve been returned or that copies haven’t been made!
Request a security check
If your landlord has agreed to a change of locks, many locksmiths will provide a free security check when they carry out the work. This is the perfect way to find out if any areas of the property’s security need improving.
Look for a Kitemark
There are many makes and models of locks available on the market, but knowing if yours is adequate can be difficult if you have limited knowledge of locks. A simple way to check is to look for a Kitemark. This will be located in various areas depending on the lock but will be clearly visible when the door is open. This symbol verifies that the locks has passed British Standards and will be accepted by most insurance companies for home insurance policies.
Home security alarms
Many alarms need to be fitted to a property when installed; leaving some tenants believing that having an alarm at their rented property is not an option. However technology has come a long way in recent years and not all alarms now need fitting to the property wall. A perfect example of this is Yale’s Smart Alarm Kits. They offer a range of alarm kits that enable you to check your home’s security anytime, anywhere via their app which sends you a notification if the alarm is ever triggered. The system runs straight from a hub so there is no drilling or fitting cables involved making it a perfect option for any tenant renting.
Protecting your whole family
With the rise of ‘Smart Tech’, similar to Yales system many new home security products come with hubs so no work is involved in setting up the kit. One of our favourites especially for families is Netatmo’s ‘Welcome’. Netatmo welcome uses face recognition and alerts you when family members arrive home safe by sending their names directly to your smartphone as well as alerting you if it spots a stranger. These systems are perfect for any family renting as they are a simple hub that can just be taken and placed in a new home if ever you move.
