How to Make Your Ground Floor Apartment More Private and Secure
When it comes to real estate, everyone has their own preferences, and apartments are no exception. And there are so many factors to consider when deciding which part of the building you would like to live in.
For example, do you want to live on a higher floor and have a better view, but put up with the fact that it’s warmer than other parts of the building? Or would a downstairs apartment be better if the elevator breaks down (or the building doesn’t have one at all)?
And, of course, security is another concern, especially for apartments on the ground or lower floors. But sometimes these are the only units available in the building and/or in your price range. In that case (or if you prefer to be closer to the ground), here are some tips to make your space safer and more private.
Invest in window care
Yes, it’s obvious, but very important and overlooked more often than you might think. Using a combination of curtains, drapes, blinds, and/or blinds not only gives you more privacy, but also prevents passers-by and would-be burglars from seeing what you have inside.
Install window locks or security bars
Most rental apartments—even older buildings—should have windows that lock . Whether these locks work is another matter, so start by checking them. If they don’t work, contact your manager, landlord or property management company to see if they can be replaced. Even with standard locks, you can also install an additional lock or security bars for another layer of security.
Make sure the corridors are well lit
Let’s say someone who doesn’t belong to your building can access it: having dim, poorly lit interior corridors will help them stay undetected. So, whether you rent or own your apartment, it’s a good idea to talk to your home management about adequate hallway lighting.