Feeling safe in your home is important, no matter if you own the property or rent it. For tenants, taking the right steps to secure a rental home can protect your belongings, reduce risks, and give you peace of mind. While landlords have legal duties to keep the property safe, tenants also share responsibility in making sure their home is secure.
From checking locks to understanding fire safety, there are many things renters can do. For example, when it comes to protecting against fire, making sure proper safety systems are in place is essential. Services such as London Fire Alarm Installation are often carried out by landlords, but as a tenant, it’s wise to check that these systems are present and working.
In this guide, we’ll go over useful and practical security tips for tenants. These steps can help you avoid common risks and stay safe throughout your tenancy.
Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities
When you move into a rental property, it’s important to understand who is responsible for different aspects of safety. In general, landlords must ensure that the property is structurally sound, has working locks, and includes key safety features such as smoke alarms and gas safety checks. Tenants are expected to look after the home, avoid damage, and report any issues quickly.
By knowing where your responsibilities begin and end, you can act quickly when something is wrong. If you are unsure about what your landlord should provide, the UK Government’s private renting guide offers clear information about landlord and tenant duties.
Check Entry Points
Before settling into a new rental, always check all doors and windows. Make sure they close securely and have working locks. If you notice anything broken, let the landlord or letting agent know as soon as possible. Weak entry points can make a property more vulnerable to break-ins.
Also, ensure that any shared entrance ways or hallways (in flats or converted houses) are locked and only accessible to residents. If you live in a ground-floor flat, consider adding extra locks or security bars to windows if permitted by the landlord.
Don’t Leave Spare Keys Outside
It may seem like a convenient idea to leave a spare key under a plant pot or doormat, but this is a common mistake. These places are the first spots burglars will check. If you need to share access with someone, it’s better to use a key safe with a secure code. You should get your landlord’s permission before installing anything.
Also, don’t label your keys with your address. If they’re lost or stolen, this can lead to a serious security issue.
Be Smart with Your Valuables
Keep valuable items out of sight, especially if your windows are easy to see through from the street. Laptops, mobile phones, jewellery, and other expensive goods should not be left in plain view when you are out.
If your landlord allows it, consider adding a small home safe for extra protection. Alternatively, you can store valuables in locked cabinets or other secure places within the home. Always close your curtains or blinds at night or when you are away to reduce visibility into the property.
Report Faulty Alarms and Safety Systems
Your landlord is required to provide smoke alarms on every floor and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with solid fuel-burning appliances. You should check these alarms regularly and report any that aren’t working.
Similarly, if there is a fire alarm system in your building or flat, you must ensure it is active and tested. While systems are often checked by professionals, tenants should not ignore beeping alarms or visible faults. Any concerns should be reported immediately to avoid serious risks.
Use Timers When You’re Away
If you’re away from your home for a few days or weeks, leaving it completely dark can make it obvious that the property is empty. One useful trick is to use plug-in timers to turn lights on and off during the evening hours. This makes it look like someone is home and can help prevent burglaries.
You can also ask a neighbour or friend to check in on the home while you’re away. This simple step keeps the property watched over and can be especially useful during holidays.
Be Aware of Who Has Access
In shared housing, it’s important to know who has keys to the property. If someone moves out, make sure the landlord or agent changes the locks or collects all copies. The same goes for ex-partners or previous flatmates who may still have keys. If you feel unsure about who has access, talk to your landlord about replacing locks.
Always be cautious about letting strangers into the home. Whether it’s a delivery or a repair visit, make sure you know who to expect and ask for identification if needed. If you’re unsure, it’s okay to delay entry until you’ve confirmed the person’s identity.
Maintain Outdoor Areas
If your rental includes a garden, driveway, or side passage, these areas should also be secure. Gates should be locked, and tools or equipment should not be left outside overnight. Thieves often check gardens and sheds for easy-to-carry valuables.
Good outdoor lighting can also make a big difference. Motion-activated lights near doors or side entrances can deter unwanted visitors. If these lights are broken, let your landlord know so they can be repaired.
Be Cautious Online
Many people share photos of their homes on social media, but this can sometimes give away information that helps criminals. Avoid posting pictures of your keys, your exact address, or anything that shows expensive items inside the home.
If you’re going away for a long period, avoid announcing your plans online. This can alert others to your absence. Share your holiday pictures after you return instead.
What to Do in an Emergency
In case of a fire, gas leak, or break-in, your first step should be to ensure your safety. Leave the property if needed and call emergency services right away. Then notify your landlord about the incident.
Having an emergency plan in mind—such as knowing where exits are and how to shut off the gas or electricity—can make a big difference. It’s always better to be prepared than to panic in a crisis.
Conclusion
Keeping your rental home secure is a shared responsibility. While landlords must provide a safe property, tenants also play a key role in everyday safety. From checking locks to reporting problems and staying alert, simple habits can help you stay protected.
Always be proactive and communicate with your landlord about anything that might affect your safety. And when it comes to features like alarm systems, fire safety equipment, and secure access, making sure they’re in place and working properly is essential.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your rental home with greater peace of mind, knowing you’ve taken steps to protect yourself and your belongings. If you want to stay updated with posts like this, please follow us on The Unsent Project.
