Reed Security believes when you become a client you will be entering into a relationship – one they want to grow and become long term...they work hard to meet all your Saskatoon Alarm & security needs from day one! In their latest alarm and security tip they share options for rental/apartment home security systems.
If you have been a renter have you considered an apartment security system? Whether you rent an apartment or a house, you have options for installing a home security system. First the facts on burglary. Second the language you’ll need in your lease agreement. And finally, we’ll review the types of security cameras and devices that work for renters.
Did you know renters are 85% more likely to be burglary victims than homeowners? Across the board: renters experience higher rates of burglary (reference). In general, apartment complexes with 10 or fewer units were more likely to be burglarized than larger ones. Single-family homes fell into the second place. And last, apartments with 10 or more units were the least likely.
Our only point is that renters need to think about home security. Modern security camera systems make it much easier for renters to install them apartments and rental homes. Your rental contract should have a specific clause regarding alterations to your apartment. Typically, the language will read something like this:
TENANT ALTERATIONS:
All alterations, improvements, or additions to the Demised Premises to be made by Tenant shall be subject to the written consent of the Landlord, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, provided such alterations and improvements do not weaken the structural integrity of the Building or detract from its dignity and/or uniformity. All alterations and improvements and/or additions made by Tenant shall remain upon the Premises at the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease and shall become the property of the Landlord, unless Landlord shall, at the time of approval of the alteration, provide written notice to Tenant to remove the same, in which event Tenant shall remove such alterations, improvements and/or additions, and restore the Premises.
TIP: GET CONSENT BEFORE YOU INSTALL A RENTAL HOME OR APARTMENT SECURITY SYSTEM
The basic rule of thumb is that you cannot do anything that alters the structure of the building. Anything you do must be restored to its original condition. Our advice is to let your landlord know what you want to do. Once you have gained their consent, make those changes on your existing lease and both you and your landlord should initial them or add an addendum to your lease. Typical language regarding a rental home or apartment security system will look something like this:
CAN TENANTS PUT HOME SECURITY CAMERAS OUTSIDE THEIR APARTMENT OR RENTAL HOUSE?
Modern home security cameras make it possible for you install them in a rental home or apartment without altering the structure. Cameras can be motion activated, which means you’ll get a text message the second someone triggers them. Some also have two-way speakers so you can “answer” your door from wherever you are, whether you’re in the backyard or across the globe. If you rent a house, then these cameras are definitely a good option for you.
CAN YOU PUT A SECURITY SYSTEM INSIDE AN APARTMENT?
According residential lease agreements, the inside of your apartment is your private space, which means that as long as you follow the standard rules on alterations, you can install your home security system in an apartment. Only under strictly outlined circumstances can your landlord enter your home without prior approval, so there should be no expectation of your landlord’s privacy if he or she walks into your apartment. Check your lease to find out what those circumstances are.
Peephole Cameras
One of the easiest options for renters is to install a door peephole security camera. Like the porch light cameras above work with standard outdoor lights, door peephole security cameras work with your existing peephole set up.
You’ll have to remove the existing peephole, but that’s not difficult at all. One you remove the peephole, your peephole security camera fits right into that hollow space. They are adjustable according to your door’s thickness. And again, like those porch light security cameras we mentioned, they are motion-activated, equipped to send you text messages, and allow you to communicate with the person at your door.
RENTAL HOME AND APARTMENT SECURITY SYSTEMS: FINAL THOUGHTS
Renters are no longer priced out of the market or shut out by their lease agreement in terms of diy home security. You may have only a few options, but they are really good options. Take advantage of that and secure yourself and your belongings.
When you become a Reed Security client you will be entering into a relationship - one they want to grow and become long-term. Last year over half of their business came from word of mouth!
PRODUCTS:
Installing a security system will decrease the odds of having a break-in by nearly 400%. There are a few more things you can do to keep the odds in your favour, and they offer these security tips to their clients.
Reed Security is a Multi SABEX AWARD WINNING company and they are TRUSTED SASKATOON ALARM & SECURITY EXPERTS
