As a renter, it is safe to assume that your landlord has put safety measures in place at the rental property. Feeling safe is a paramount factor to consider before moving to a new place.
As a landlord in Tampa, it is your responsibility to assure your tenant that you have implemented safety measures. This is also to encourage them to rent long-term.
In this article, we'll provide to you some effective ways to provide security to your tenants renting in your
Tampa rental property.
1. Use deadbolts and install solid doors.
Securing your doors with a deadbolt provides more safety to the main exit and entrance of your Tampa home.
Ordinary locks can be flimsy and easily picked by intruders. You can also include chain locks and peepholes. In addition, install solid doors made of wood or metal.
2. Secure windows with locks.
Most thieves enter a home via its windows. Make sure that the windows in your home can be securely locked from the inside. Better yet, install window bars for a more secure deterrent against robbery.
3. Install more external lights.
Consider adding more lights, especially in the front and back of your Tampa home.
Make sure to focus on the entrances and think about solar-powered lights to save on your utility bills. Additional indoor lights are also encouraged. Dark corners, hallways, and stairway areas should be well lit at all times.
4. Consider installing a security system.
Having a working security system can set a tenant’s mind at ease. Ensure to inform your tenants about how the system works. Some tenants will even pay a premium on top of their rent for your Tampa home just to have this additional security.
5. Advertise the security system.
Once you have your security system set up, post signs. This informs anyone who is considering to trespass that it might not be such a good idea.
Do not include specific details (such as the model of the security system) in order to keep criminals from researching how to disable your security system.
6. Avoid placing plants/large objects near doors/windows.
Limit a burglar’s choice of hiding places in your Tampa home. Do not place shrubs or objects in the vicinity of your entrance/exit. In the case of a burglary, a burglar might use your decorative objects/plants as cover.
7. List and mark all your furnishings.
Consider marking your appliances and anything else of value in your Tampa home to easily identify/trace stolen furnishings. This makes it easier to replace and make an insurance claim if an item is stolen.
8. Hire a property manager.
This will deter robbery attempts at your home compared to rental units without property managers. This is particularly useful when you are going on a long vacation, as most burglary attempts happen when a tenant/resident is away for a long period of time.
Another advantage of hiring a property manager is that the tenant screening will be strict. Property managers can thoroughly examine a prospective tenant’s past and check for background references. This is also beneficial in securing the safety of your other tenants.
9. Discuss with your tenants ways to increase security in your Tampa home.
Taking a proactive security approach is always better than dealing with the aftermath of a burglary. Exchange security tips with your tenants to safeguard the property from robbery attempts. Some tips include:
• Keeping valuables in a locked safe.
• Refraining from posting on social media that you are going away on vacation.
• Keeping interior lights on at night.
• Informing a close relative of your travel plans and asking them to check up on the house from time to time.
• Making sure the security system is always activated upon leaving your Tampa home.
• Having the daily newspaper/magazine subscription delivery put on hold when you go on a trip.
10. Study the vulnerable points of your property.
To prevent a robbery at your Tampa rental property, examine your unit from all angles and determine the best ways to access it. Once you find its weak spots, find practical solutions: you can replace glass with hard wood or metal, opt for shatterproof glass for the main windows, and incorporate fences with more secure features to keep the intruders away.
11. Consider getting an insurance policy.
The best way to ensure protection of your tenant’s possessions is to apply for a
home insurance policy. Consider a home and contents insurance bundle for your Tampa home. This will also protect you from large expenses, as the damages on your property from the break-in will be covered as well.
The Bottom Line
A secure property raises its marketability and encourages tenant loyalty. Using 1 or more of the aforementioned tips will help make your Tampa, Florida home more safe.
