In today’s world, safety is more than an added feature—it’s a must. Tenants want to feel safe in their homes, and as a landlord, it’s your job to make that happen.
Rental properties aren’t just about putting a roof over someone’s head. It’s also about creating a safe and secure space that tenants can count on. Responsible tenants who feel safe and secure in your property stay longer, pay on time, and recommend your rentals to other prospective tenants. That level of security builds long-term relationships and protects your investment.
Are you ready to make your rental a safe space tenants can count on? Read on to find out how to create a secure haven for your tenants and boost your property’s value in the process.
A. Safety Devices that Should Be Installed in Every Rental Home
Here are the standard safety features your rental property must have according to fair housing laws:
1. Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, invisible gas that can be deadly if it accumulates in a home. Carbon monoxide detectors alert tenants when dangerous levels of CO are present, giving them time to get out and get help.
Installing CO detectors in your rental property can prevent serious health risks while ensuring tenants’ safety, especially in areas with gas-powered appliances or heating systems.
2. Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are for early fire detection. They sound an alarm when they detect smoke, giving tenants time to get out before the fire spreads. These alarms reduce the risk of injury or death in the event of a fire.
Pro Tip: By placing smoke alarms in key areas like bedrooms and kitchens, you’re protecting your rental property from fire damage and keeping your tenants safe from dangerous fire accidents.
3. Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers allow tenants to put out small fires before they get out of control. This tool adds an extra layer of safety, protecting both tenants and your property from severe fire damage, especially when you allow backyard fire pits.
Placing fire extinguishers in easily accessible areas like the kitchen can help tenants extinguish fires caused by cooking accidents or electrical malfunctions.
B. Key Security Measures for Your Rental Property
Want to keep your rental safe and sound? It’s simpler than you think! A few simple security measures can make a big difference in protecting your investment and giving your tenants peace of mind. Here are additional security systems you can consider installing in your rentals:
1. Smart Locks
Smart locks offer keyless entry. This allows your tenants to lock and unlock doors using a smartphone app or a passcode, eliminating the risk of lost keys or unauthorized key copies. It also makes your rental property access more convenient and more secure.
You can even change access codes between tenants so only authorized people can enter the property.
2. Deadbolt Locks
Deadbolt locks add an extra layer of security beyond standard door locks. They are strong, durable, and difficult to pick, reducing the chances of intrusions. Installing deadbolt locks on all entry doors is a simple and effective way to boost your rental property’s security.
3. Window Sensors
This security system alerts tenants if a window is opened unexpectedly, making it the first line of defense against potential break-ins. If the sensor is triggered, an alarm will sound, or a notification will be sent to you and your tenant, protecting your property from intruders entering through windows.
4. Motion Sensors
Motion sensors detect movement within a certain range and can trigger lights, alarms, or even security cameras when unusual activity is detected. They can deter unwanted visitors and give tenants peace of mind knowing their surroundings are being monitored.
Pro Tip: Motion sensors are useful in areas like entrances or backyards where you may not have constant visibility.
5. Security Cameras
Security cameras allow you and your tenants to see the property in real-time, either through a smartphone app or on-site. They are a visual deterrent to potential criminals and capture footage that can be used as evidence if an incident occurs.
Pro Tip: Placing cameras at key entry points like doors and driveways will increase security and give tenants peace of mind.
C. Getting the Proper Insurance for Multiple Rental Properties
As a landlord, you’re responsible for the safety and maintenance of your rental properties, but no matter how careful you are, accidents and damage can happen. Purchasing landlord insurance can protect your personal assets from various types of liabilities:
- Tenant Damage: Let’s say a tenant accidentally sets the kitchen on fire while cooking, and the unit is damaged. Without insurance, you’d be out of pocket for the repairs. With landlord insurance, you’ll be covered for the costs, so you won’t have to dip into your personal savings.
- Natural Disasters: Natural events like floods, storms, or wildfires can damage your property. In many cases, standard homeowner insurance won’t cover these events for rental properties, but landlord insurance will. For example, if a hurricane damages the roof of your property, insurance will cover the repairs so the property is safe for future tenants.
- Legal Claims: If a tenant or visitor is injured on your property and sues you for medical costs, your landlord insurance can cover legal fees and potential settlements. This type of coverage is crucial to avoid out-of-pocket expenses that could bankrupt an unprotected landlord.
Whether you have one rental property or many, having the right landlord insurance is key to protecting your investment and your tenants’ home. Review your policies now, fill in the gaps, and get fully covered. When disaster hits, you’ll want the peace of mind only the right insurance can give.
Cultivate a Safe Haven for Your Tenants with Property Management Expertise
Making sure your rental property is safe and secure is good for your tenants, your investment, and your reputation as a landlord. Following the recommendations we listed above, plus a solid written rental agreement and efficient tenant screening process can help you make your rental property business smoother and more secure in the long run.
At Tier One Real Estate LLC, we assist landlords and property owners in Salt Lake in creating safe and thriving rental environments. A property manager from our team of experts will take the hassle out of property management from prospective tenant screenings to property maintenance and security upgrades.
We know tenant safety is important, and we’ll make sure your properties are well-protected, and your tenants feel secure. Get started today with our full-service property management and get the peace of mind on your business that you truly deserve. Don’t wait—contact us today!
