As a landlord, you are responsible for the safety of your tenants. This means ensuring that your rental property is free from various threats, both inside and out. According to the Office for National Statistics, there were over 11.5 million crime cases in the UK in 2017/18. Accidents also come into play, with about 27,000 fires and almost 200,000 burglary attempts each year.
There are many things you can do to protect your property and tenants. Here are some of them.
1. Install security cameras
Nowadays, every property owner should install security cameras. This will help you keep an eye on things, even when you’re not there. It will also act as a deterrent for criminals. Security cameras can catch them and provide valuable evidence if a crime occurs.
Alongside security cameras, you should also consider installing a burglar alarm. This will make your property much less attractive to burglars. This kind of alarm system can be linked to your security cameras, so you can keep an eye on things even when you’re not physically there.
Others also install motion-sensing lights around the perimeter of their property. These will turn on if someone steps onto your property, making it easier for you to see them on your cameras. Always make sure that your security system is visible to potential criminals.
2. Check for fire risks
You should regularly check for fire risks in your rental property. This means looking for electrical faults, blocked exits, and flammable materials. If you identify any fire risks, make sure you fix them immediately.
A fire extinguisher on your property is a must. It should be easily accessible and in good working order. Some commercial buildings also have fire dampers that close off air vents in a fire. This helps prevent the spread of smoke and flames. But you need a professional fire damper testing company to install and maintain these because they are complex.
You should also have a fire escape plan so your tenants know what to do if a fire breaks out. This plan should include multiple escape routes and a designated meeting place. You should also ensure that your tenants know how to use a fire extinguisher.
3. Protect against water damage
Water damage is one of the most common problems landlords face. It can be caused by burst pipes, heavy rains, and leaks. Water damage can be expensive to repair, so it’s essential to take steps to protect your property against it.
One of the best things you can do is install a water sensor. This will send you an alert if water is detected on your property. This gives you a chance to fix the problem before it causes any damage.
You should also check your property for any leaks regularly. Even a tiny leak can cause significant problems if it’s left unchecked. Look for water stains on ceilings, floors, and walls. If you find any, make sure you fix them immediately.
4. Protect your property from pests
Many rental properties suffer from pest problems. The most common pests are rodents, insects, and birds. They can cause damage to your property and spread diseases. You can do many things to prevent pests from taking over your rental property.
One is to keep your property clean and free of food scraps. This will make it less attractive to pests. It would help if you also sealed up any holes or cracks that pests could use to get into your property. If you do have a pest problem, there are many things you can do to get rid of them. You can use traps, poison, or hire a professional pest control company.
5. Keep doors and windows locked
One of the simplest ways to deter criminals is to lock your doors and windows. This includes all doors and windows, even ones not in use. It would be best if you also made sure that all doors and windows are made of sturdy materials that are difficult to break.
You should also install locks on all doors and windows. The type of lock you need will depend on the material of the door or window. Many types of locks are available, so make sure you choose one that is appropriate for your property.
You can also use a security system that automatically locks doors and windows when they are not in use. This is a good option if you have tenants who forget to lock up. This may be more expensive than traditional locks, but it will give you peace of mind knowing that your property is always secure.
These are just a few things you can do to keep your rental property safe from various threats. By taking these precautions, you can protect your property and your tenants. Always remember to stay vigilant and take action immediately if you notice any potential threats.
