
Who is responsible for the security of a rental property – landlord or tenant?
It’s the responsibility of the landlord to ensure a rental property is secure. This includes making sure doors, windows, garages and any outbuildings can be closed and have an adequate lock.
If this is in place when a tenant signs their agreement, then they will take on the responsibility of making sure their new home stays secure.
A simple way to regularly change locks
When a rental property has a new occupancy, it’s down to the landlord to change the locks or entry systems.
The most cost-effective way to do this is to install a keyless digital entry system. This takes away the problems that arise with keys changing hands. Instead, it becomes a simple matter to change the PIN or entry code that’s needed to access the property.
Keyless digital entry systems are ideal for rental properties as the landlord retains control. Even in houses of multiple tenancies, you can manage access with a smart system that lets you monitor numerous people coming and going at different times of the day and night.
How to enhance security
As a landlord, you’re responsible for all access points such as doors and windows. Any obvious problems such as rotting window frames or locks suffering from wear and tear need to be rectified.
Any windows that can be easily accessed such as those on the ground floor should be fitted with locks. All external door locks must be of a high standard.
Sensor lights should be fitted at entry points and in communal areas. This will make tenants feel more secure as they’ll be able to see who’s in the hallway. By fitting spy-holes into the doors of flats or in houses of multiple occupancy, your tenants can see who’s outside their door if a motion sensor light comes on when someone enters. Chain locks could also be fitted on these doors.
External sensor lights should be fitted at entry points and in any dark corners. They will act as a deterrent to intruders and help tenants feel more secure when returning home at night.
You can take control with smart security
An intruder alarm should be visible on the outside of your property. It’s reassuring to tenants and a deterrent to burglars. This can form part of your smart security system.
Smart security systems are ideal for landlords as they can be managed remotely. This can include controlling alarms, lighting, door access and even CCTV from a PC or mobile device.
You may feel that not all of these security elements are necessary. However, that’s the beauty of a smart security system – you can scale it up or down as required, based on the circumstances of the property.
Both parties should have contents insurance
As landlord, you should hold both buildings and contents insurance. Your tenant will just need to have contents insurance.
This way, you’re both covered in the event of damage or a break-in.
Would you like expert advice on how to secure your rental properties?
If you’d like to find out how the latest home security products can improve the security of your properties, contact Stuart at Rocks Locks.
Stuart will conduct a FREE home security survey and provide advice on the best security solutions to meet your needs and budget.
Call Stuart on 07900 335525.