Burglar’s choice is apartments and condos. Why, you might ask?
We’ve all heard the popular saying, “there’s safety in numbers.” We can see a good example of a herd of rhinos coming end-to-end to fending off the fierce lion pack when under attack. However, numbers may not play to your advantage when living in an apartment or condo complex. According to the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC), these homes are 85 percent more likely to be burglarized than single-family homes. Here are the reasons as to why apartments are more likely to be the target for burglary, and what tenants, managers and building owners can do.
Reason No. 1
Burglars have more freedom in the building
How well do you know every single one of your neighbors that live in your complex? Odds are you don’t know all of them. Some random person walking around may seem like another tenant.
Solution: Managers can set up a private and closed Facebook group for people to get to know each other’s faces and communicate.
Reason No. 2
Burglars look for easy entry
In many cases, tenants will assume that the locked entrance gate or garage and the eyes of their neighbors will protect them, sadly this is not always the case. We must never assume that we are 100% secure, nobody can guarantee this.
Solution: Be aware of your surroundings at all times, report suspicious activity to the police and be sure your condo or apartment is well lit and locked. No matter what floor you live on.
Reason No. 3
Burglars are masters of opportunity
Take a look at your building from the outside at night and make sure it’s well-lit, and there’s no easy access to the inside. Report your findings to the property manager or building owner immediately.
Solution: Building owners need to make sure the building is well-maintained and provide for well lit parking areas common areas, hallways and walkways.
Protecting yourself is very important. We are here to help Building Owners and Tenants with any questions or insurance concerns. Contact Hoffman Brown Company in Sherman Oaks.
