How to Improve Security for a Rental Property

As a landlord, keeping your rental property secure isn’t just about protecting bricks and mortar – it’s about giving your tenants a safe place to call home. A well-secured property not only helps prevent break-ins but also reduces liability, keeps tenants happy, and encourages long-term rentals. And with 266,489 burglary cases reported in England and Wales in the year 2023/24, investing in security for a rental property is more important than ever.

So, how do you keep your rental safe from threats like burglary, vandalism, fire, and even tenant-related issues? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical security upgrades, risk assessments, and budget-friendly strategies to help you protect your investment. Whether it’s installing smart locks, adding security cameras, or working closely with tenants to maintain a safe environment, these simple steps will give you peace of mind – knowing your rental is well-secured.

Essential security features for rental properties

Keeping a rental property safe doesn’t have to be complicated. A mix of practical security measures and regular maintenance can go a long way in deterring crime and ensuring peace of mind for both landlords and tenants. Here are the key steps to improving security for a rental property:

Install high-quality locks

Secure all exterior doors with heavy-duty deadbolts and ensure they are properly installed. Don’t overlook window security! Adding quality window locks is especially important for ground-floor units. For even more protection, consider keyless locks that prevent unauthorised key duplication.

Set up security cameras

Visible security cameras at key areas like the front door, driveway, and the back entrance/garden. These cameras not only provide valuable footage in case of an incident but also act as a strong deterrent against potential intruders.

Use a monitored alarm system

Installing a monitored alarm system for doors, windows, and motion detection can provide round-the-clock protection. Loud sirens can scare off burglars, and connected systems can alert emergency services if a break-in occurs.

Improve exterior lighting

A well-lit property is less appealing to intruders. Install motion-activated lights around entry points, pathways, and parking areas to improve visibility and discourage unwanted visitors.

Manage keys securely

Use lockboxes or key safes to control access to the property, ensuring that only authorised individuals can enter. Also, changing the locks between tenancies is a smart way to maintain security.

Conduct regular security inspections

Regular property inspections help identify and fix vulnerabilities like broken fences, damaged locks, or loose window frames before they become a bigger problem. Also, keeping bushes and trees trimmed eliminates hiding spots for intruders.

Communicate security expectations with tenants

Clear communication with tenants about security measures and expectations fosters a shared responsibility for safety. Encourage tenants to report any security concerns and remind them to lock doors and windows when they leave.

For maximum security, landlords should focus on four key areas: installing sturdy locks, setting up an alarm system, securing all access points, and conducting regular inspections. By implementing these simple but effective steps, you can create a safe, worry-free environment for your tenants while protecting your investment.

Conducting a security risk assessment

Regular security assessments help landlords identify and fix vulnerabilities before they escalate, ensuring tenant safety, preventing security breaches, and maintaining compliance with legal standards. By taking a proactive approach, landlords can safeguard their investment, maintain their reputation, and create a secure living environment. A well-secured property not only helps deter break-ins but also minimises the likelihood of costly insurance claims.

In the event of criminal damage, landlords may need to claim on their insurance for repairs, but frequent claims can lead to higher insurance premiums in the future. This makes preventative security measures even more important to avoid unnecessary expenses and maintain a cost-effective rental business.

Why regular security assessments are important:

• Tenant safety: Identify and fix security flaws like faulty locks, broken windows, or poorly lit areas to protect tenants from potential threats.
• Preventative maintenance: Spot and repair minor security issues before they escalate into larger, more expensive problems.
• Risk mitigation: Identify weak entry points, poor visibility areas, and other security gaps to prevent break-ins.
• Property value: A secure property is more attractive to quality tenants and helps maintain its long-term market value.

What a security risk assessment should include:

• Exterior inspection: Check doors, windows, fences, gates, and landscaping for potential weaknesses that could be exploited by intruders.
• Lighting check: Ensure motion-activated and entry-point lights are functional to improve visibility and deter unwanted visitors.
• Security systems: Test CCTV cameras, alarms, and any smart security features to ensure they are in good working order.
• Lock & access review: Assess the condition of door and window locks, and review key management practices to prevent unauthorised access.
• Tenant involvement: Encourage tenants to report security concerns and communicate safety expectations clearly in the tenancy agreement.

By conducting regular security checks, landlords can reduce risks, protect their property, and create a safer living environment for tenants – all while maintaining compliance and avoiding unnecessary insurance claims that could increase future premiums.

Cost-effective security strategies for rental properties

Improving rental property security doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a few simple and affordable upgrades, landlords can make a big difference in keeping tenants safe, deterring intruders, and protecting their investment – all without stretching their budget. Here are some practical, budget-friendly security measures that are easy to implement:

Keep up with outdoor maintenance

Overgrown bushes and trees can give intruders places to hide, making it easier for them to approach the property unnoticed. Regularly trimming hedges and trees improves visibility and reduces security risks. Adding fencing or gates is another low-cost way to secure the property perimeter and make it less accessible to unwanted visitors.

Get tenants involved in security

Encouraging tenants to join a neighbourhood watch or simply be more aware of their surroundings can go a long way. If tenants know what to look out for and feel comfortable reporting suspicious activity, they can help keep the property safer for everyone.

Affordable security upgrades that make a big impact

• Reinforce existing doors with deadbolts or security plates to make them harder to force open.
• Install peepholes and security chains so tenants can safely check who’s at the door.
• Use dummy security cameras – sometimes, just the appearance of security is enough to deter potential burglars.

Install a doorbell camera

Smart doorbell cameras are one of the easiest and most affordable ways to boost rental property security. These cameras let landlords and tenants monitor visitors remotely, and many come with motion detection and two-way communication, making them a great security upgrade on a budget.

Use budget-friendly security tech

Security technology is more accessible than ever, and even small tech upgrades can make a big difference. Consider:

• Smart plugs to control lighting remotely and create the illusion that someone is home.
• Basic CCTV systems to monitor entry points.
• Motion detectors that activate lights or alarms when movement is detected.

If you’re on a tight budget, focus on security upgrades that give you the most protection for your money. High-quality locks, motion-sensor lighting, and basic security systems are affordable but highly effective in improving rental property security. With these simple, low-cost security improvements, landlords can create a safer, more secure environment for tenants while protecting their rental property investment. Best of all, these changes don’t require a huge budget – just a little effort and smart planning!

Long-term benefits of a secure rental property

Investing in rental property security isn’t just about preventing break-ins- it’s about creating a safe and welcoming home for your tenants while protecting your investment. A secure property brings peace of mind for everyone involved. As a landlord, you can feel confident knowing your property is well-protected, and tenants are far more likely to stay long-term when they feel safe where they live.

It’s a landlord’s duty to ensure the property meets basic safety standards, and failing to do so could lead to legal trouble or financial losses. Taking simple security measures – like installing strong locks, security cameras, and good outdoor lighting – not only reduces the risk of break-ins or damage but also lowers liability and potential legal headaches. Plus, a well-secured property is more attractive to renters, making it easier to fill vacancies and even increase rental value over time.

Prioritising security isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s a smart, long-term investment that helps keep tenants happy, minimises stress and protects your bottom line.

Keep your rental property safe and secure

Being a landlord comes with its challenges, but rental property security doesn’t have to be one of them. Simple upgrades like strong locks, security cameras, and regular inspections can make a big difference in keeping tenants safe and protecting your investment. Plus, clear communication with tenants and proactive maintenance help prevent issues before they arise.

Whether you’re a first-time landlord or a seasoned pro, our advice centre has practical tips to make security easy to manage. For extra peace of mind, consider landlord insurance to cover unexpected costs like property damage or liability claims. Get in touch or request a quote today – because a secure rental is a stress-free rental!