7 Ways to Keep Your Apartment Building Safe & Secure

16 Sept

Apartment living has many advantages, but security is something all residents need to be mindful of. With so many people coming and going, it’s easy for risks to creep in if we’re not careful. The good news? A few small habits can make a big difference to keeping you, your neighbours, and your building safe.

Here are some simple, practical tips every apartment resident should know:

1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

When entering or leaving the building, always take a moment to look around. Watch for anyone trying to follow you through entry doors or garage gates without using their own key or fob. This type of “tailgating” is one of the most common ways intruders gain access to apartment buildings. If you notice someone you don’t recognise attempting to come in, politely ask if they live in the building or suggest they contact the resident they’re visiting to let them in.

2. Let Security Doors Do Their Job

Always make sure that security doors and garage gates close fully behind you. Don’t be tempted to prop open a door for convenience or for visitors who “are only a minute away” this creates a major weak point in your building’s security. If you notice doors that are slow to close or don’t latch properly, report them to your strata manager or committee straight away.

3. Don’t Grant Access to Strangers

As friendly as we all like to be, avoid buzzing in or holding doors for people you don’t know. Instead, encourage visitors to contact the person they’re visiting directly. Getting to know your neighbours can also help everyone quickly spot unfamiliar faces in the building. A connected community is a safer community.

4. Be Smart With Rubbish Disposal

Think about what you’re throwing out. Leaving boxes for high-value items like TVs, computers, or appliances near bins can signal to would-be thieves what’s inside your apartment. Break down and conceal boxes inside recycling bins where possible.

5. Guard Against Identity Theft

Your personal details are valuable to criminals. Before throwing away documents like bank statements, utility bills or anything showing your name and address, shred them or tear them up. Avoid leaving paperwork with sensitive information in unsecured bins where it can be easily taken.

Also, keep an eye on your mailbox. A stuffed mailbox can signal that nobody’s home and leaves you at risk of mail theft. If you’re going away, arrange for a trusted neighbour to collect your mail or set up a postal hold/redirect.

6. Secure Your Apartment and Garage

Don’t leave valuables in plain sight, especially in your car or storage cage. Apart from possibly breaching strata by-laws, visible items attract opportunistic theft. Lock bikes and other items in storage areas or take them inside where possible. Consider additional locks or security devices for added protection.

7. Report Anything Suspicious

If you see someone acting oddly in or around your building for example, trying door handles, lingering near mailboxes or loitering in car parks report it straight away. Contact your building manager, strata committee or, if necessary, the police. It’s always better to be cautious than regretful.

A Safer Building Starts With Us All

Good security is everyone’s responsibility. By staying vigilant and following these simple steps, you’ll help make your building a safer and more enjoyable place to live.

Download our Quick Guide for more ways to keep your apartment building safe.

Disclaimer:

This article is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Readers should seek independent legal and professional guidance relevant to their specific circumstances and jurisdiction