By Hannah Phillips

Image: aberdeenshire.gov.uk

The modern student comes equipped with a whole host of electrical gadgets, making them easy targets for thieves. With this in mind, here are 5 simple steps landlords and property managers can take to keep their houses secure.

As many students will be leaving the safety of student halls or the comfort of their parent’s homes, they may not be aware of the security measures they ought to be taking in order to keep themselves and their valuables safe. With this mind, as well as keeping properties secure, property managers can also offer advice to their tenants to make sure everything is safe and sound.

Step 1. Keep valuables out of sight: 

Image: viseo.com

Make sure your tenants are aware that they shouldn’t leave laptops or other expensive items on display or close to windows.

Step 2. Secure windows and doors:

Image: nightwatchprotection.com

Advise your tenants to keep windows and doors locked at all times, not only when out but also whilst they’re at home. Leaving doors unlocked whilst upstairs can make an easy access point for intruders.

Step 3. Lock check:

Image: homeguides.sfgate.com

Remember it is your legal obligation to keep locks in a good state of repair, so do regular checks. It may be worth upgrading the locks every once in a while too, in case spare keys were cut and not handed back in. Also, don’t rely on a simple Yale lock that can be forced or kicked in. Extra security will benefit both you and the tenant, as the event of a break-in will cost both parties.

Step 4. Contents insurance:

Image: Endsleigh.co.uk

If your tenants don’t already have their valuables insured, then let them know about contents insurance. Endsleigh offer specialist student cover with flexible policies that include loss, international cover and liquid damage.

Step 5. Light timers:

Image: ehow.com

Students will often go back home for weeks at a time during holiday periods, so advise your tenants to invest in light timers.

Property managers, what other security challenges have you faced over the years? What would you say are the most important steps property managers should be taking to keep their tenants’ valuables safe and sound? Let us know on Twitter with the hashtag #lifemadesimple and we’ll spread the word.

Read our guide on cheaper student contents insurance here!