Being a rental property owner is no easy feat. From keeping the building structurally sound to complying with state codes, you’re responsible for the well-being of all your tenants.
While putting steel walls around your property isn’t feasible, there are some steps you can take to protect the tenants and their belongings.
Here are seven safety measures every property manager should take:
1. Install High-quality Door and Window Locks
Intruders look for easy entry points, and weak doors and windows can make your property vulnerable. Always install high-quality doors made of wood, steel, fiberglass, or composite. Install locks of grade 1 or 2. Consider installing reinforced deadbolt locks with bolts that are at least one inch long.
For windows and other entry points, use high-security locks made with tamper-resistant cylinders. You can also install security bars to make it difficult for intruders to force entry. These measures will improve the experience of your tenant and ensure their safety.
2. Implement Smart Lock Systems
Smart locks offer enhanced security and convenience and streamline property management. It includes biometric scanners, PIN code entry points, and remote monitoring.
Here’s why smart locks are becoming increasingly popular among rental property owners:
- They provide keyless entry, reducing the hassle of carrying a home key with you everywhere.
- Smart locks allow landlords to monitor and control access to the property remotely.
- A smart lock for commercial door uses advanced encryption technologies to prevent unauthorized individuals from entering or cracking PIN codes.
- They allow easy check-in/ check-out for guests, boosting tenant experience.
Smart lock systems can also increase the value of your commercial rental building, allowing you to earn greater profits.
3. Install Surveillance Cameras
Surveillance cameras will allow you to monitor the entry and exit points of the building. Install cameras in both high-traffic and remote areas of the building, such as:
- Hallways
- Outside every tenant’s apartment
- Parking lots
- Common areas
- Back exits
- Roof
- Sidewalks
Strategically installed cameras will help you identify unusual behavior and respond to criminal activity.
Install cameras with high-quality image resolution. You can also upgrade to cameras with motion detection and security alarm features. Connect all the cameras with your mobile phone or laptop to view activity anytime.
4. Limit the Number of Master Keys
Master keys are undoubtedly convenient, but handing them out like Halloween candy can land you in trouble. Many tenants give master keys to plumbers, electricians, and other home maintenance personnel for convenience. This can lead to break-ins and theft.
Only give master keys to authorized personnel and run background checks on them. Update the master key every once in a while to avoid unexpected security breaches.
5. Ensure Proper Lighting
Good lighting, both inside and outside the rental property, is critical for tenant safety. It will not only deter crime but also prevent the tenants or workers from tripping or falling. Well-lit pathways will allow tenants to navigate the property, especially at night.
Here are some tips you should follow when selecting the lighting of your rental property:
- Focus on entry points, such as main entrances, side doors, and garages.
- Make sure the walkways, pathways, and common areas have adequate lighting.
- Consider using motion-detection lights to deter criminal activity and prevent security breaches.
- Use energy-efficient LEDs to reduce costs.
Focusing on outdoor lighting might seem inconsequential, but it can boost the overall satisfaction of your tenants.
6. Pay Attention to Tenant Screening
Owning and managing a rental property can be financially exhausting. To protect your investment, always run background checks on tenants, even if they’re staying for a short time. This will help you identify people with a history of conviction or criminal activity and prevent future costly lawsuits.
Tenant screening also allows you to assess the financial condition of a tenant, reducing the risk of missed rent or eviction. Lastly, it will help create a harmonious environment between all the tenants, reducing the likelihood of disputes.
7. Conduct Regular Property Inspections
Checking up on the utilities and paying bills on time isn’t enough. As a landlord, you need to keep an eye on every aspect of your building, and that includes the property’s structure and features.
Regularly inspect doors, windows, and ceilings to identify any issues. This will save you from costly repairs and ensure tenant safety. Next, make sure the electrical and plumbing systems of the building are working properly.
You should also assess the security system of the building, such as smart locks, motion detectors, and smoke alarms. Remember to keep a detailed record of each system. This will assist you during a tenant’s move-out inspection.
Regular inspections will also help you comply with state housing codes. Ask your tenants to share any security concerns. By fostering clear communication and collaboration, you can improve your tenants’ living conditions and earn revenue.
