This article will provide advice on assessing the security of a property.
When viewing houses it is important to consider the security of the property.
If you are unhappy about the security arrangements, ask the landlord to make any necessary changes before you sign an agreement, as it can be difficult to get work done once you’ve moved in.
Make sure you consider the area that the property is in, although we would like to reassure you there are very, very few areas in Portsmouth where you would need to be overly concerned about your safety.
It is always worth considering the following:
- Ground floor windows and those near to flat roofs are particularly vulnerable
- External doors should have adequate locks, preferably mortice/deadlocks
- Doors and windows should be in good condition – rotting wood is much easier to force
- Access from side paths into rear gardens should be restricted – ideally fitted with a secure gate
- As in any major city, it is always a good idea to think about where you are and what you are doing because you can put yourself at risk if you don’t.
The safety points listed below are only guidelines. For more detailed advice, visit www.crimereduction.gov.uk:
- If you are at home on your own do not let strangers in. Ask to see formal identification of all ‘official’ callers such as representatives from gas and electricity suppliers, meter readers and council officials etc.
- Think about your personal safety – try to stay with friends when travelling around the city, especially at night.
- Remove all valuable items during the holidays.
- If your front door requires a key to secure it from the outside, then make sure this is done even if you are in the house.
- Do not leave downstairs windows open if everyone's upstairs and make sure all windows are shut when everyone is out.