31 Oct Tips for Finding a Secure Apartment for Rent in Kamloops BC
While there are many apartments for rent in Kamloops, BC, finding one with strong security features and practices can be hit or miss. Finding the right apartment for your lifestyle and budget is probably your main concern, but it’s wise to assess the security of a prospective apartment rental. Below are some practical tips to help you find a secure apartment.
What Security Features Should I Look For?
When viewing an apartment that you are considering renting, consider the following security features:
Secure entrances
Are entrance doors secured with sturdy locks and uncopiable keys? Are there protocols for whom tenants can “buzz in” to the building?
Quality locks on doors and windows
Ensure that apartment doors have a deadbolt lock and that windows, patio or balcony doors lock securely.
Security video surveillance
Security video cameras play an important role in deterring crime in general. A systematic review of 80 research papers found that security cameras significantly reduce crime in residential areas.
Adequate lighting
Criminals want to operate in darkness to obscure their identity, therefore well-lit entrances, pathways, parking lots, and common areas can deter crime.
Entrances are not obscured by landscaping
Tall bushes and shrubbery, trees and other cover-providing plants shield criminals from view. Landscaping should always keep entrance ways and walking paths visible.
Well-maintained, clean building and grounds
Not only is a well-kept apartment building and grounds a sign that the property managers and owners care, it is also thought to deter crime. In the early 80s, social scientists James Q. Wilson and George L. Kelling developed “broken window theory”, which suggests that visible signs of neglect, such as broken windows, litter, graffiti, and public loitering, can lead to increased incidents of crime.
Proactive property managers
A proactive property manager maintains apartment security by monitoring security effectiveness and addressing concerns of tenants.
Good neighbourhood
Look for an apartment rental in a Kamloops neighbourhood that has the signs of being a “good” neighbourhood. Does the neighbourhood look clean? Are homes, apartments, and infrastructure well maintained or does the neighbourhood appear run down? Does the neighbourhood have a reputation for crime?
Your Apartment Search
Finding an apartments for rent in Kamloops isn’t difficult, but finding the right apartment does take some effort.
- Reach out to friends and family and find out if they know of a secure apartment for rent in a good Kamloops
- Search for apartment rentals on Kijji, Zumper and Craigslist and make a note of security features if they are listed. If not, contact them and ask.
- Tour the apartment exterior and the neighbourhood where the apartment is located.
- Book a viewing.
- Ask the rental manager about incidents of break-ins and other crimes in the building.
- Talk to tenants about their experience with safety and security.
Looking for a Secure Apartment in Kamloops?
McGill Ridge apartment rentals offers the latest in security features including FOB-key access and video surveillance monitoring. Our buildings and grounds are well-maintained and have ample exterior lighting to keep tenants safe and deter crime.
If you’d like to rent an apartment, please complete our Request Apartment Availability form. A representative will contact you in a few business days to discuss next steps.