Top 5 Tips To Keep Your Apartment Secure

September 5th, 2023



Most renters in Chico, CA live alone. On top of that, many of them do not know their neighbors, which makes them attractive targets for burglars. Living in a house that is not yours with lots of restrictions as to what you can do or modify presents major security challenges. Here are some security tips to help you sleep better at night in your apartment:

1 – Add Locks To Your Front Door

In a lot of areas in Chico, the apartment buildings are old. If that is the case for you, do not rely on the lock on your front door. If your apartment door only has a doorknob, add a deadbolt. You may also consider changing the lock so you can be sure you’re the only one with a copy of the key.

28% of burglaries occur with someone still in the house. For additional safety when you’re inside your apartment, consider a swing door guard and a lock locker or a door brace. These options are convenient for renters since they are portable and do not need to be installed.

2 – Check Your Door’s Strike Plate

Strike plates are the metal plates attached on door frames. They help locks stay secure and add another layer of protection against forced entry. This is important since most intruders simply break into homes by kicking the front door. To maximize the new locks you install, regularly check your front door’s strike plates and tighten or replace them as needed.

3 - Secure Sliding Doors

Sliding doors on balconies are very easy to break, so they are common entry and exit points for burglars. Aside from a secure lock, renters can use a sliding door security bar, which they can place at the bottom of a sliding door to keep it from being opened. This is an affordable and convenient security option that does not require installation.

4 – Cover Your Windows

Do not make your apartment any more attractive to burglars by placing your belongings on display in front of your window. Install curtains or blinds so outsiders cannot peek inside your home. If they do not know what they will find inside, burglars are less likely to invade your property.

5 – Install A Security System

Ask your landlord if you are allowed to install a security system. Renters will benefit from stand-alone security systems that you can take with you when you move out. Opt for a security system that comes with wireless security cameras, and install them inside by your front door (unless you can get permission to install them outside) and windows. You can monitor and control your security system and cameras through your phone and get alerts when there is an intrusion.

You do not need to live in fear if you are staying in an apartment. Implement these tips to keep your home secure and unattractive to burglars. If you’re considering installing a security system in your CA apartment, contact us today to know your options.

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"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
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