Apartment moving is a big step, involving many big decisions. As you select your new home, take a moment to consider an issue of the utmost importance: your personal safety.
Visit The Neighborhood
One of the most important things to consider when moving to an apartment is the level of safety that the neighborhood – and the apartment itself – will offer you. Look around the neighborhood for clues regarding the apartment safety and security.
If you are not familiar with the neighborhood it is a good idea to visit the area during the daytime – and during the evening – to assess the activities that are happening around your apartment. A phone call to the local police station will tell you of the level of crime in the area; be sure to ask about your street and apartment building in particular.
Investigate The Apartment
Make sure there is adequate lighting in the parking lot and surrounding walkways for when you are coming and going after dark.
Check that your apartment locks have been changed prior to your move-in date and that no one but the landlord has access to the master keys. Doors should be in good working condition with several layers of locking mechanisms.
Ground level apartments should have safety bars on the windows – although you should always make sure you can easily remove the bars from the inside of the apartment in case of a fire.
Use Your Head
Use common sense when it comes to moving to an apartment. Often you will simply get a feel for the area, as well as the apartment complex, by making several visits at different times and giving yourself a chance to get to know the area.
Trust your instincts. No matter how good a deal the apartment is, you will not be happy unless you feel safe and comfortable.
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