Tenant top tips: securing your property

As a tenant, keeping your property secure is important for protecting your belongings and providing peace of mind. While your landlord is responsible for certain aspects of security, such as making sure that all doors, windows, garages, and outbuildings have adequate locks and can be closed, there are plenty of measures you can take to keep your home safe. We’ve put together this checklist of practical steps you can take to help keep your property safe and secure. By following these ten tips, you can reduce the risk of burglary and make sure your home remains a safe and protected place to live.  

Tenant top tips: securing your property 

1. Burglar-proof your doors and windows 

Doors and windows are primary points of entry for burglars, which is why it is important to check that they are securely locked each night before going to bed. Simple measures, like suggesting your landlord invests in high-quality locks, deadbolts, or security bars, can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins at your home. mydeposits insurance partner, Total Landlord, recommends installing five lever mortice deadlocks where possible. A burglary takes place every 108 seconds in the UK, costing on average over £3,000, so providing secure locks is vital.  

2. Keep valuables out of sight  

Prevent unwanted attention by keeping valuable items out of sight. Instead, place jewellery and electronics in locked cabinets or safes, where they are not visible to burglars. Homes are more likely to be targeted if their valuables are easily seen from outside. This is particularly important at Christmas time when presents could be tempting to a burglar. And don’t forget to conceal any empty boxes that could alert a would-be thief to the valuables indoors. 

3. Inform your landlord about vacant property 

Unoccupied properties are more likely to be targeted with burglars, so if you’re planning on being away, make sure to tell your landlord. They can help make the property more secure by conducting regular checks and keeping exterior lights on. Some landlords may also offer security services that you can take advantage of during your absence. 

4. Don’t announce your travel plans publicly   

Avoid sharing your travel plans. While it may be tempting to post your holiday on social media, it is important to keep those details private. Posting about being away from home makes your property an easy target for burglars. Instead, save the photos and updates for when you return, and keep your plans off public platforms. Additionally, announcing in public places that you and your family will be away soon could attract unwanted attention from malevolent listeners. 

5. Report suspicious activity 

It’s always smart to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity to local authorities and your landlord. Whether it is unusual behaviour caught on a security camera, unfamiliar people loitering around your property, or strange noises, reporting these incidents can help prevent potential break-ins. Being cautious may prevent criminal activity before it escalates. 

6. Get to know your neighbours 

Building relationships with your neighbours is one of the best ways to enhance your property’s security. Neighbours that know you and your routine can help look out for suspicious activity and alert you if anything seems amiss. A tight-knit community is more likely to act quickly if they see something unusual around your property. Even if you’re away, your property can still be monitored, and any suspicious behaviour can be reported. 

7. Be mindful of spare keys 

When giving others spare keys to your property, it is crucial that they are people you trust. Never hide spare keys in obvious locations, such as under a plant pot near your door or under the doormat. If you lose your key, have it replaced immediately to avoid unauthorised access.  

8. Install a peephole or camera 

Installing a peephole in your front door or a smart doorbell camera is an excellent way to check who’s at the door before opening it. With modern cameras, you can also monitor visitors remotely and receive alerts if someone approaches your property. This provides an additional layer of security by seeing who is at the door before opening it. Make sure you check with your landlord before making any changes to the property. 

9. Always activate your security system 

If you have security alarms, activate them every time you leave your home. Additionally, make sure all surveillance cameras, motion sensors, or smart home devices are working and active. If your property doesn’t have an alarm system, talk to your landlord about installing one. 

10. Use smart security devices   

Ask your landlord whether they would permit you to install or consider investing in smart home devices like smart locks, motion sensors, and security cameras. These devices can be controlled remotely via your smartphone, allowing you to monitor your property from anywhere and take immediate action if necessary. Many of these systems are easy to install and can be moved if you change residences.  

Securing your rental property is a shared responsibility between you and your landlord, but it’s important that you understand your responsibilities according to the terms of your tenancy agreement. While your landlord is responsible for repairs if your property is damaged as a result of criminal activity, if you leave a ground floor window open and there is a break in through the window, you will have enabled the break in and broken the terms of your lease. Always make sure you read your tenancy agreement and clarify anything you are unsure of with your landlord.  

Fortunately, there are plenty of proactive steps you can take to keep your home safe. By following these ten practical tips—from securing doors and windows to being mindful of travel plans and using smart security devices—you can reduce the risk of break-ins and protect your belongings. Building good relationships with your landlord and neighbours, staying vigilant, and investing in simple security measures will give you added peace of mind.  

For more information on securing your property, including what to do if there is a break in and who is responsible for damage, read Total Landlord’s ‘Ultimate guide to securing your rental property’.