There’s nothing like moving into a new apartment or condo, but let’s face it: it’s not all about how pretty the kitchen backsplash looks or if there’s room for your Peloton. Trouble can start brewing because security often gets tossed on the back burner. Your cozy home could be a lot less secure than you think from sneaky entry points to high-tech vulnerabilities.
When it comes to keeping a property safe, the devil is in the details. Assuming you’re renting or buying, you probably think that the building management has done the necessary work. The truth is that they may have missed a chapter or two in the ‘How to Secure Your Building’ handbook. Here are some of the most overlooked flaws—and tips that just might help you sleep a little easier.
Outdated Door Locks
It may look solid coming out of your front door, but if the lock is old school, it’s the burglar’s dream. Many apartments and condos, for instance, still have locks that can be easily picked or bumped, techniques criminals have mastered. The modern deadbolt or smart lock system is a better option. In some cities, they even give discounts to landlords that upgrade their locks—something to ask about before you move in.
Weak Sliding Door Security
Sliding doors are convenient, they let in lots of light, but are often a security weak spot. They’re also most often accompanied by flimsy latches that you can pick open without too much difficulty. A simple fix? They should be made of a firm bar or rod in the track. It’s not very glamorous but when you do it can make a world of difference. This should be non-negotiable if you’re in a ground-floor unit.
Unsecured Windows
Another favorite for intruders are windows, especially those in older buildings. These are an easy access point if there’s thin glass, broken locks, or no locks at all. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, 23 percent of home burglaries are through first-floor windows. This may not be necessary, but if you’d like an extra layer of security, consider adding window locks or even installing shatter-resistant film.
Common Areas Where Cameras Don’t Work
Security cameras in lobbies and parking lots are reassuring if they actually work. It’s like putting a “Beware of Dog” sign without a dog. Contact building management and verify their cameras are working as well as being watched.
Parking Areas With Poor Lighting
Unwanted activity is commonplace in dark parking garages or poorly lit lots. Shadows are loved by criminals, and no visibility makes residents easy targets. Motion sensor lights or brighter LED fixtures can really help ward off trouble.
Ignored Mailroom Vulnerabilities
According to Security.org, over 44 million Americans reported stolen packages during 2023, which means package theft is on the rise. And if your mailroom doesn’t have secure lockers or access controls, your most recent Amazon delivery is up for grabs. These risks can be sharply reduced, however, by smart parcel lockers or requiring residents to sign for deliveries.
Access Control Failures
Sure, key fobs and entry codes sound secure, but they’re not foolproof. Without regular code updates or deactivation of lost fobs, it’s like leaving a spare key under the doormat. A best practice? Change codes every six months and replace missing fobs immediately to keep things locked down.
Overlooked Fire Escapes
When you’re in an emergency situation, fire escapes are lifesavers, but they can also serve as an entry point for intruders. Escape doors in many buildings don’t have proper locks or alarms in them for use. The balance desired is struck by a locking mechanism that still permits emergency egress.
Maintenance Personnel Who Have Not Been Vetted
Not vetting workers is just as risky as handing your house keys to a stranger. You should always find out about the vetting process of the building for hiring maintenance staff or contractors. An extra layer of precaution? Be present during the work in your unit.
Forgotten Basement Entrances
Valuable building infrastructure often lives in basements, but it’s often overlooked in security plans. Most trespassers will break into your house through unlocked or poorly secured basement doors. Make sure these areas are locked, without anyone not authorized to enter.
No Protocol for Lost Keys
If a tenant loses their keys, what do they do? In most cases, without changing the locks, the building is left vulnerable, and management just issues a new one. Landlords should consider rekeying locks when keys are lost; it’s a worthy investment.
Wi-Fi Network Vulnerabilities
As more smart devices come to life in homes, unsecured Wi-Fi is an open invitation for hackers. Connect to the building’s shared networks only with passwords and keep them updated. An extra layer of security for your personal devices can be added by using your own encrypted router.
Overlooked Landscaping Risks
To an intruder, tall bushes or trees by windows would make great hiding spots. Remove landscaping cover close to entry points. This is a simple fix that people tend to overlook but can really decrease the risk.
