How secure is your flat?

How secure is your flat? Although there are fewer points of entry to a flat, they need to be as well protected as possible. As for overall building security, all residents need to keep an eye and an ear out as well as making sure that communal front and back doors are never left open. Protection of a flat begins from the outside. Check that the managing agent or landlord cuts shrubs and planting back regularly so that they don’t obscure anyone from view or interfere with lighting or CCTV.

If you notice something’s not working properly or if a light is out, let the managing agent or landlord know so that it can be fixed straight away.

Your communal door is only effective if it is closed and secure, so always remember to check that it locks behind you. If it doesn’t, then report it to your management agent or landlord so it can be repaired quickly.

Don’t ever buzz anyone in that you don’t know – even if they say that they’re expected by another resident – or let them follow you in.

The best communal door entry system as recommended by the police is an audio and video entry system where residents can see and talk to a visitor before they let them in.  

The ideal communal door will be robust, security accredited and fitted with a good self-closing arm and two magnetic locks top and bottom. It should also be linked to the fire alarm and an electronic access control system operated by a key fob.  

Communal doors should automatically open and remain so in the event of a fire but be fitted with buttons or handles that allow you to manually override if needed.

For even tighter security on communal entrances in blocks of flats, it’s always a great idea to have personalised security key fobs that can track who is leaving and entering the property.

With all multiple occupancy buildings, you never know who’s coming and going. And that’s why it’s advisable to get together and get a key fob for front and rear doors to the building. You can share the expense or, if properties are rented, then approach the landlord, explaining the benefit to them.