Basic Apartment/Home Security

Exterior Doors
Exterior doors should be core wood or metal.
Exterior doors should be fit to the frame tightly (no more than 1/8 inch clearance).
Exterior doors should be well lit.
Exterior doors should have hinges on the inside, not the outside.
Exterior doors should not be blocked by trees or bushes.
Exterior doors should not have decorative glass panels or windows.
Exterior doors should have a deadbolt with a one-inch chain. Chain locks and/or knob locks are not sufficient.

Windows
Windows should not be covered by trees and bushes.
Windows should have key locks in addition to standard thumb-turn locks. These key locks are inexpensive and can be purchased at a hardware store.

Sliding Glass Doors and Windows
A solid strip of wood or metal in the track can reinforce sliding glass doors and windows. Sliding glass doors and windows have special key locks, also found in hardware stores.

Keys
Never put identification tags on your key rings or holder.
Never hide a key outdoors.

Off-Campus Housing Security Checklist

Along the exterior of the building

Are the building and grounds well maintained?
Are the entryways, sidewalks and parking areas well lit? Are they visible from the street?
Are the residents’ names (first or last) printed on the mailboxes?
Are the exterior doors kept locked?

In the parking area(s)

Are the lots and surrounding streets free of abandoned cars?
Is parking usually available close to your door?
Is the area well lit? Especially at night and on weekends?

Doorways and windows within the unit

What kind of security does the unit have: knob locks, chain, deadbolt locks or peephole? Deadbolt locks are the best security. The unit should have more than one locking system.
Can the main entryway be easily seen from the street, even at night? Is the entryway well lit?
Do trees, weeds or bushes obscure doors and windows?
Are curtains, shades or blinds provided?
Are there sturdy locks on all windows?

Other Considerations

Are doors to the laundry room kept locked? Are residents given keys?
Does the apartment complex provide security services such as a patrol or escort services?
Does the landlord have a published policy about issuing and replacing keys?
Protect yourself by never putting identification tags on your key ring or key holder. If your keys are ever lost, intruders will find you!
Know your roommates’ security habits. You are only as safe as roommates allow you to be!
Talk with prospective neighbors. Do they feel safe?

Keep Your Safety in Mind

Keep all doors and windows locked.

Never let strangers in your home without proper identification, including maintenance, service or repair persons.

Do not panic if your home has been entered. Do not go into the unit. Contact the police and your landlord immediately.

Make sure all entranceways and stairwells in your house or apartment are well lit.

Do not automatically open the door when someone knocks. Ask who it is; if you have questions about the response, do not hesitate to keep the door locked.

Be sure that your smoke detectors are working; check the batteries on a monthly basis.