Practical advice for enhancing apartment security
Improving Apartment Security in Victoria: A Comprehensive Guide
Living in an apartment comes with its own set of security concerns, but by implementing a few simple measures, residents can significantly reduce the risk of burglaries. Here are some key tips and measures to enhance apartment security in Victoria.
Assess and Upgrade Your Locks
Replacing existing locks with high-quality or smart locks that offer features like keyless entry and app-based monitoring can provide added control and security [1][4].
Keep Doors and Windows Locked
Always ensure that all doors and windows are securely locked when leaving or sleeping [1]. This basic step remains crucial.
Install Security Systems
Consider installing CCTV cameras, alarm systems, and smart lights to improve surveillance and deter intruders [1][2].
Be Alert to 'Tailgaters'
In apartment buildings, ensure no one follows you inside without proper access, especially in shared entrances [1]. Be cautious when entering an apartment's car park as well.
Increase Outdoor and Common Area Lighting
Well-lit areas reduce hiding spots for potential burglars and enhance visibility for residents and security personnel [2].
Know Your Neighbours and Report Suspicious Activity
Strong community connections help create safe environments where residents look out for one another and promptly alert authorities of concerns [1].
Engage with Your Owners Corporation
The owners corporation is responsible for maintaining Essential Safety Measures such as fire detection, alarms, fire doors, and emergency lighting, which contribute to overall safety in the building [5].
Use Building Security Planning and Support
For government or managed properties, coordinate with facilities or security teams to improve access control and threat response [3].
Befriending Neighbours Can Be a Security Measure
Getting to know your neighbours, reporting suspicious activity, and respecting shared spaces can help improve apartment security [6].
Additional Precautions
Learning common burglary tactics can help anticipate and block potential vulnerabilities. Recording suspicious behavior and involving law enforcement early can also be beneficial [2].
Community Vigilance and Layered Approach
Taking a layered approach that combines physical security upgrades, technology, community vigilance, and building-wide safety programs is the most effective way to deter burglaries and enhance apartment safety in Victoria [1][2][5].
Other Recommended Practices
- Having the locks changed on an apartment's entrance doors can increase its security.
- Setting up an online community, such as a WhatsApp group or private Facebook group, can help residents keep in touch and watch out for each other.
- Storage cages should have a heavy-duty padlock or disc lock.
- Stashing valuables in a home safe can protect them from theft during a burglary.
- Before moving into an apartment, it's recommended to book an inspection to assess the apartment building's security measures.
- Renters are allowed to have the locks changed on their apartment doors, but they should get the rental provider's permission first.
- Locking your mailbox with a heavy-duty padlock or disc lock can help prevent theft.
- Reporting security issues in shared spaces to the owners corporation or strata organization is important.
- Storage cages in apartment complexes are often targets of theft, so it's important to safely store belongings.
- In Victoria, tenants need permission from their rental provider (landlord) before installing a smart video doorbell.
- Entrances, including gates and car parks, should ideally be monitored by surveillance cameras or on-site security staff.
- Keep the front door to your apartment closed and locked at all times, even when you're at home.
- Strangers should not be let into apartments, lifts, or buildings without proper verification.
- Do not prop external entry doors open for convenience.
- Having renters or contents insurance can provide peace of mind in case of a burglary.
According to the Crime Statistics Agency, a combined 9,947 thefts and burglaries were reported at apartments, units, and flats across Victoria for the year ending March 2025 [7]. By following these tips and measures, residents can significantly reduce their risk of becoming a statistic.
The lifestyle of apartment living should include an awareness of potential security risks, with home-improvement measures taking precedence in ensuring safety. Adopting practices such as replacing locks, keeping doors and windows secure, installing security systems, maintaining outdoor lighting, and being alert for suspicious activities can help reduce the likelihood of burglaries in the home-and-garden environment.
