Security tips for women living alone in rented houses

Many people move to different cities in pursuit of new job and career opportunities. This has led to increased demand for rented properties. Living alone in a modern apartment in a busy city can give a sense of independence and it can make one feel empowered. At the same time, safety and security becomes a key concern for tenants, especially for women in big cities. In this article, we bring some quick tips to keep in mind if you are a single women staying on rent.

#1. Conduct due diligence when renting a property

Typically, potential tenants seek properties for rent through brokers. When visiting any property, avoid going alone for the first time. Make sure to conduct due diligence, prior to selecting a home, including a reference check on the landlord.

#2. Find apartments in safe neighbourhoods

Scan the neighbourhood to assess its liveability. Research the crime and safety rating of the area online, which will enable you to choose a neighbourhood where you feel secure. “Doing an online search of the property, which is now possible due to various websites, will give you a better sense of the neighbourhood. Ensure that adequate security measures are in place and also check the crime rate in the neighbourhood. Understand the proximity to public transportation networks and access to taxis/rickshaws from the property. If possible, visit the area along with a friend, late in the evening or night, to ensure that the area is safe at night,” suggests Shubika Bilkha, business head at The Real Estate Management Institute.

#3. Meet the neighbours

Friendly neighbours can be helpful in any emergency and provide a sense of safety and support in times of need. If you are a single woman planning to reside alone in a rented house, it may be a good idea to apply your social skills and meet your neighbours. Introduce yourself and let them know you are going to be their new neighbour. Get their contact number.

#4. Security measures in the housing society

Actress Jasmin Bhasin, who lives alone on rent in Mumbai says, “I have lived in a joint family in Kota and for the last few years, I am living alone in Mumbai. Although it is not scary, it is always better to be alert. I ensured that the complex I chose to live in, had good security like CCTV and guards. I always keep one original document of the staff I hire, such as my maid or my driver. I always check identity cards of any service person, who comes to my house for maintenance works. I ensure that my maid is at home, when the electrician or plumber come and keep the door open when they work inside.”

#5. Precautions to take before moving to a new house

• Check the door locks: Make sure the key is functional in the main door lock. Change all major locks after moving into a new apartment, as sometimes, even brokers may have spare keys.
• Inspect the doorbell: Check if the doorbell is functional and that the volume is high. Make sure the wiring is secure.
• Check doors and windows: Check if all door and window locks work properly. In case they do not, ask the landlord to fix them before you move. If you are residing on the ground or first floor, install grills on the windows.
• Install window curtains: Curtains provide privacy while letting in natural light and keeping the room cosy. It is better option than window blinds.

#6. Install security system

• CCTV camera: Nowadays, thefts are caught on security camera. A security camera installed outside your home can provide security to the house.
• Motion sensor outdoor lights: Motion sensor outdoor lights can be installed around your property at every entry point which can help detect burglars and provide additional security.
• Smart locks: Smart locks have become popular these days. They come with remote control features, which ensure safety. Moreover, it is convenient as you do not have to worry about losing keys.
• Smart doorbell: Smart video doorbells with remote viewing apps and offering two-way communication allows one to see whoever is at the door. Hence, one can be a deterrent against break-in.
• Safety alarm and apps: Personal safety alarms and apps ensure additional security. These features are useful to anyone in case of emergency, as they send out distress message.

#7. Keep emergency numbers handy

Keep all emergency numbers handy by saving them in your mobile phone. Among these numbers, include the numbers for ambulance services, police, fire brigade and women safety helpline number. This backup system of numbers will help you find these numbers easily when needed.

#8. Maintain an emergency box

When living alone, one also needs to consider on how to handle any medical emergency. It is better to keep a first aid box and some SOS medicines in the box. Include flashlight, spare keys and some cash handy. This equips you every time you leave the apartment or in case you do not come back home soon.

#9. Stay vigilant

Be aware of your surroundings. If you find any suspicious activity outside, inform people around and stay inside your house. If required, you can call the emergency helpline number. If you are stepping out of the house, inform close friends and neighbours.

#10. Own a pet

Consider owning a pet as they can be good company. You can choose a trained guard dog for your safety. Guard animals can alert their owners when they see any intruder. Moreover, their presence can help one deal with being alone and make one feel relaxed. Moreover, they can be a great way to start conversation with new neighbours.

#11. Screen outsiders who come to your house

Do not allow strangers to enter your house without verifying their identity, even if they are service person from the society or delivery personnel. This is crucial tip for those living alone in an apartment. Ask for their identify card before allowing them entry into your house. You can check with the society management for confirmation.

#12. Hire staff from an authorised agency

Most housing societies offer in-house maintenance personnel. These professionals are usually screened and part of the community. Hence, one they can be considered trustworthy.

When it comes to hiring domestic staff, take references from friends or colleagues. “Hire domestic staff, only after police verification only and from an authorised agency. Keep a current photograph of the hired staff with yourself. This will help, in case they need to be tracked down. Always keep local police numbers saved on your mobile,” suggests Shravni Pawar, owner of Safe Hands 24X7 Security. Pawar also advises women to learn basic self-defence techniques, as it boosts confidence and increase one’s chances of success in handling any threatening situation. Additionally, maintain a cordial relationship with your neighbours, as they can be of immediate help in case of an emergency.

#13. Participate in community safety programs

Safety awareness programs on self-protection, calamity preparedness, women’s safety tips, etc., organised at workplace or colleges can be useful for women residing alone as it helps them learn basic skills and knowledge that will ensure their safety.  Further, they help develop a community spirit and allow them to interact with other residents.

#15. Join self-defence classes

Women living alone can also utilise their free time and enrol in self-defence classes such as martial arts. These self-defence trainings help one learn how to protect oneself and make oneself more aware of the surroundings.

#16. Be aware of what you share online

In today’s era of social media, many people tend to post details about their personal lives online. However, one should be mindful of the kind of information being shared online for safety reasons, especially for those live alone. It is better to avoid sharing details such as single status, time of leaving house, location, vacation, etc. One can never be sure who could be monitoring these posts.

#17. Give out a spare key to someone trustworthy

Never keep spare keys in places that could be easily identified. If you are unable to find a secure place to keep your spare keys, hide the key outside your apartment. A better idea would be to give out one spare key to a trustworthy neighbour, friend or family member.  Be mindful and give out the spare keys sparingly.

#18. Keep the keys ready when entering or leaving the house

One smart way to protect oneself in any emergency is always to keep the house keys handy. Searching for keys in the wallet when leaving or entering the apartment is not a good idea as it makes the person vulnerable and gives a potential attacker the chance to overpower.

#19. Call friends over during any repair work at home

Allowing strangers in the house when one is alone may not be a good idea, especially when talking about women’s safety. When there are any technicians or maintenance people in the house, it is wise to call friends or neighbours. This way, one will feel secure by having a trusted person and will not let the repair person discover whether or not the occupant lives alone in the house. If this is not possible, a simple way to secure oneself is to keep the main door open during the entire duration of the repair work. In case of any trouble, one can rush out of the house easily. It is also best to keep the phone and wallet handy.

Housing.com News Viewpoint

With the increasing number of working professionals and students moving to new cities, there has been a significant rise in the number of women renters living alone in apartments. Thus, there is an increasing need to ensure safety norms are followed by modern housing societies. It is wise to inspect the house for safety features and check the neighbourhood to see if proper security measures are in place. Modern housing societies and gated communities have mobile applications that streamline society operations. One can check for such facility with their housing society and stay connected.

FAQ