Your options aren’t as limited as you might think. This simple renter’s guide includes top home safety tips & tricks to protect your property & loved ones

It’s unfortunate, but if you’re a renter, you may not be able to enjoy the same level of home security as an owner. 

For many people, this sparks a number of concerns and even anxiety around their safety at home. 

But even if your landlord or property policies don’t allow you to use traditional home security methods, you still have a wide range of tools available to you—many of which you may not realize! 

Whether you’re in an apartment or a house, the guide below will identify the top safety concerns for renters and outline some of the most effective and affordable ways to address them.

What Are the Top Home Safety Concerns for Renters?

When it comes to ensuring the safety of their loved ones, home, and belongings, renters often have a few main concerns in mind:

• Neighborhood safety – Acceptable local crime rates, low wildlife risks, etc.
• General upkeep – Well-kept landscaping, paint, floors and carpets, appliances, maintenance, etc.
• General security – Quality locks on windows and doors, peepholes, chains, good lighting, security cameras, nightly security patrols, etc.
• Security systems – Typically, if one isn’t already installed, landlords or property policies don’t allow tenants to install them.

Depending on where you live, one or more of these factors could be less than ideal and disrupt your peace of mind at home.

Address Your Concerns With These Top Home Safety Tips

Handle any issues from the above concerns and put your mind at ease with these simple home safety tips for renters.

Shop With Safety in Mind

Unfortunately, you can’t “try before you buy” with a rental property. But you can do some research and make sure the property checks all your boxes before signing the lease.

Even if you think you’re set on a rental property, always check the local crime statistics before taking the next step. You could also talk to some of your soon-to-be neighbors and ask them how safe they feel in the area. 

When touring the property, keep a keen eye on your surroundings and check the lighting, upkeep (interior and exterior), doors, and windows. And don’t forget to ask about property security (cameras, security guards, etc).

Upgrade Your Door & Window Security

Door security varies widely between rental properties. Some may have features like deadbolts and chains, while others might not.

If your door has no deadbolt, ask your landlord if you can install one. Also, consider adding additional security measures like a chain, door reinforcement lock, or second deadbolt. If you’re not allowed to install these items, an adjustable door security bar is an excellent option.  

You can also install a Ring or another smart doorbell device so you’ll always have an eye on the comings and goings at your front door. 

As for your windows, always keep them locked when they’re not open—unless you live in a highrise above the first few floors. And to deter window-shopping burglars, keep your blinds closed when you’re not at home or once the sun goes down. 

To make it even more difficult to see into your apartment from the outside, you could also invest in some thick curtains.

Invest in a Wireless Security System

If installing your typical home security system is too invasive for your rental property, there are plenty of wireless options to choose from. 

Wireless security systems often include door and window sensors that stick to surfaces to avoid any damage, and you can always adjust settings or check your status from your phone. 

Add a wireless camera or two with a direct feed to your smartphone, and you’ll have yourself a full-fledged security system you can count on.

Apply for Renters Insurance

Regardless of all the effort you put into your home security, it’s still best to plan for the worst-case scenario.

As a renter, your personal belongings aren’t covered by the property manager’s insurance. That means, in the event of a burglary, you’ll be responsible for replacing any electronics, furniture, appliances, and valuables you lose. 

But with renters insurance, you can ensure these items are covered for a small monthly fee—usually somewhere around $20, which is more than worth it for such a powerful safety net. 

Download the Rescu App for Instant Emergency Response

While you’re upgrading your home security, consider downloading the Rescu app for the fastest way to get help in an emergency at your fingertips.

Rescu lets you dispatch fire, police, or medical first responders to your pre-registered address or current location with just two taps on your smartphone—no talking required. 

When you send an emergency alert, the app instantly routes it to Rescu’s 5-Diamond UL-certified monitoring center, which immediately dispatches the nearest first response team. 

This monitoring center is dedicated solely to subscribers, which means your alert will never have the chance to get caught up in the life-threatening delays that are so common with the 911 system today.

Believe it or not, Rescu’s private headquarters and call-free emergency alert system make it twenty times faster than 911.

And the best part? 

You don’t even have to be at home to send help there. Whether you’re out at the store or halfway across the world, if your home security system alerts you of an emergency, two taps is all it takes to immediately dispatch responders to your address.

You deserve the same level of security and peace of mind as a homeowner. Download Rescu today for 24/7 protection in the palm of your hand.