Protecting your home and investment property is paramount in today's world. At Compass Property Management, we understand the significance of security for protecting your property and your peace of mind.

Our experts offer valuable tips and advice, ranging from simple measures to cutting-edge technologies, to help you safeguard your home and investment. In this article, we'll explore practical strategies and innovative solutions to enhance the security of your property, ensuring that your valuable assets are well-protected.

How to Improve Your Rental Property Security

Install a Security System

Installing a security system is a good step to take to keep your rental property and your residents safe. A comprehensive security system typically includes door and window sensors, motion detectors, and a central control panel. When an intruder attempts to enter the home, the sensors trigger an alarm, alerting you and deterring the intruder.

Many modern security systems also offer remote monitoring capabilities, allowing you to access real-time footage of your property from your smartphone or computer. Some systems can be integrated with smart home technology, enabling you to control your security system from a distance. Investing in a security system means that your home is protected around the clock.

Use Strong Locks on Doors and Windows

The strength and quality of locks on doors and windows can significantly impact the security of your home. Deadbolt locks, in particular, offer superior protection against forced entry compared to standard locks.

key in an open door

When properly installed, deadbolts extend deep into the door frame, making it difficult to kick or pry the door open. Window locks prevent anyone from gaining access through vulnerable entry points. Regularly inspect and maintain locks to ensure they are functioning properly, and consider upgrading to high-security locks for added protection against potential break-ins.

Secure Sliding Glass Doors

Sliding glass doors are a common entry point for burglars due to their vulnerability. To enhance security, install additional measures such as a dowel or track blocker to prevent the door from being forcibly opened.

A dowel placed in the sliding door's track prevents it from being opened from the outside, while a track blocker reinforces the door's locking mechanism. These simple yet effective security enhancements provide extra protection to prevent unauthorized access to your home through sliding glass doors.

Install Motion-Sensor Lights

Motion-sensor lights serve as an effective deterrent against intruders by illuminating dark areas around your property when motion is detected. By automatically activating when someone approaches, motion-sensor lights alert homeowners to potential threats and discourage intruders from trying to enter.

Place motion-sensor lights strategically around the exterior of your home, focusing on entry points such as doors, windows, and pathways. Installing lights with adjustable sensitivity and duration settings helps customize their functionality to your security needs.

interior of a modern dining room

Use Timers for Lights

Using timers for lights effectively creates the illusion of occupancy when you are away from home. Set timers to turn lights on and off at different times throughout the day to mimic the patterns of activity typically associated with a lived-in home. This deters potential intruders by giving the impression that someone is present, even if the property is empty.

Additionally, you can consider using timers for other electronic devices, such as radios or televisions, to contribute further to the illusion of occupancy and improve home security.

Trim Bushes and Trees

Overgrown bushes and trees can provide hiding spots and obstruct visibility around your property. Regularly trim vegetation near windows, doors, and pathways to eliminate potential hiding spots and improve sight lines.

Trimming bushes and trees also improves the overall appearance of your property and contributes to curb appeal, so keeping your landscaping under control has multiple benefits.

Consider Investing in Smart Home Security Technology

Smart home security technology offers advanced features such as remote monitoring, smartphone integration, and customizable alerts. These systems allow homeowners to monitor and control their home security from anywhere using a smartphone or computer.

Smart security devices such as video doorbells, indoor cameras, and smart locks provide real-time notifications and footage of activity on your property, enhancing overall security and peace of mind. Smart home security systems can also be integrated with other smart home devices, allowing for seamless automation and control of your home environment.

brown door with a silver handle and multiple locks

Conduct Regular Inspections

Regular inspections of your property allow you to identify and address potential security vulnerabilities (and other property maintenance issues) before they become problematic. Inspect doors, windows, locks, and other entry points for signs of wear, damage, or tampering.

Ensure that security devices such as alarms, motion sensors, and surveillance cameras function properly and have adequate battery power. Regular maintenance and upkeep of your home's security systems and features help ensure they operate optimally and provide reliable protection. Keeping your residents safe can contribute to lease renewals and long-term resident retention.

Install Deadbolt Lock

Deadbolt locks provide additional security to exterior doors, making them more resistant to forced entry attempts. Unlike spring-loaded latch locks, deadbolts extend deep into the door frame, making it more difficult for intruders to kick or pry the door open. When properly installed and maintained, deadbolt locks provide reliable protection against unauthorized access to your property.

Choose high-quality deadbolt locks with heavy-duty construction and tamper-resistant features for maximum security. Installing deadbolt locks on all exterior doors enhances home security and gives homeowners peace of mind, knowing their property is well-protected against intruders.

Conclusion

In conclusion, protecting your home is essential for safeguarding your investment and ensuring your residents’ safety. Compass Property Management offers expert guidance and support for property owners seeking to invest in real estate.

By implementing these essential tips for home security, investors can protect their property, deter intruders, and enjoy greater peace of mind knowing that their property is safe and secure. Trust in Compass Property Management to provide the resources and expertise to protect your investment and keep your property safe for years.