Apartment Safety Checklist for Renters
You’ve signed the lease for your first apartment, ready to take that extra step towards independence. With that comes a responsibility to secure your new space and ensure safety precautions are in place. Here’s our checklist for prioritizing safety and security for apartment renters.
Safety Checklist Before Move-In
Crime Statistics
Before committing to an apartment, you should always check crime statistics for the area. To view crime by zip code, visit Crime Grade and run a basic search on the area - note any statistics that stand out for you, good and bad. Then, talk to the apartments management team to ease additional concerns about both the area and the apartment itself.
Security Features
Talk with the management team about added security features. How do they plan to keep you and the property safe? Are there surveillance cameras, neighborhood watch, access keys, etc.? Some apartments have security systems already inside their units. We encourage you to ask about those features and their plan to keep you safe, if that’s not the case with your building. If you want, ask about installing your own security system. We recommend doing this before signing your lease.
Visit NCA Alarms for security monitoring systems in Nashville and Middle Tennessee!
Renters Insurance
Usually required for most apartments, renters insurance is a good idea for protecting your belongings from break-ins or natural disasters. Along with personal property, they cover you for liability and temporary residence. Accidents happen - make sure you’ve got yourself covered the moment you first step into your apartment!
Safety Checklist After Move-In
Smoke Detector and OC Alarms
Your apartment should come with both a fire alarm and carbon monoxide (OC) detector. Additionally, check to see if your apartment has sprinkler systems in place in case of a fire. When you first move in, test your alarms to ensure they are working properly.
HVAC Systems
Next, double check that your HVAC systems are operating safely and efficiently. Consider asking a professional or your apartment's maintenance team to inspect your heating systems and double check that everything runs smoothly. Ask if your filters have been changed recently and remind them of regular cleaning.
Washer and Dryer
Immediately check your dryer vents for any leftover debris. Too much build up will harm the dryer and potentially cause a fire, so clean your vents before you first cycle. Inspect washer belts for wear and tear and listen for excessive noise during spin cycles. You should also regularly clean your washer and dryer lint traps before every use.
Outlets and Lights
Inspect all the outlets on your walls and make sure panels are properly secured. Look for loose wires and concernable damage. Then, make sure all your lights work properly and come on smoothly. Delayed light switch responses are a sign of worn out wires that could spark a flame if not replaced.
Stairs, Walkways, and Escape Routes
Analyze the building's stairs and walkways so you know how much space you have in case of an emergency, such as a fire. Know your exits and take note of escape routes so you can get away quickly.
Apartment Safety With NCA Alarms
With NCA Alarms, you have access to 24/7 security monitoring systems in case of burglary and other criminal threats. We provide affordable options and industry knowledge of the best equipment to keep your apartment safe. Call NCA Alarms to install reliable residential systems in Nashville and Middle Tennessee!