Preventing Crime in Your New Place
Burglaries often occur when a resident is on vacation, during the holidays when people are traveling or at other times when the resident is not home. If you have plans to be away from your apartment for an extended period of time, make sure to do the following:
- Use a timer to turn lights on and off in your apartment as if you were home. You can also set your radio and television to do the same.
- Have a neighbor keep an eye on your apartment and pick up your mail, newspapers and magazines that might pile up. It’s not a bad idea to call to have your subscriptions held while you are gone.
- For extra security, you can have a friend or neighbor check on your apartment by turning on lights and televisions, making it seem like someone is home.
A very important part of renting is getting renters insurance. Although it’s scary to think about, even though you may do everything in your power to prevent a burglary, it still might happen. With renters insurance, you can get a policy, or add onto a policy, to cover your valuables in the event that they are stolen. Some policies may also cover any items that are stolen from your vehicle. Speak to the insurance company that you currently are using for your vehicle, often, they also carry renters insurance and since you’ll be holding two policies from the same company, you might be eligible for a discount. When you get your renters insurance you’ll need to make a list of your valuables, photographing and video taping these items may also prove to be useful in the case of a burglary. If you purchase any expensive items after you move, make sure they are added to your policy. Keep your receipts for these items and your list, photos and videos in either a safe deposit box, a fireproof safe or in the home of a friend or family member.
If you do have the unfortunate experience of having your apartment burglarized, you should make a list of all stolen items and any damage that was done to the apartment. You will need this information for the police as well as for your insurance claim. Contact your landlord or building manager for emergency repairs, those should be arranged for you. If your credit cards or statements that show your credit card number were stolen, contact your credit card company immediately. The same should be done with your bank if your checkbook or any other banking statements were taken. Don’t lose hope of recovering stolen items. With your help, the police have a better chance of returning your valuables to you.
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