Stay safe in your apartment
Everybody worries about crime, so many apartment properties are exploring sophisticated alarm systems, security cameras and other hightech ways to protect their residents.
In Texas, though, every rental dwelling (this includes rental single-family houses) is required to be equipped with some basic, low-tech items that can do a lot to keep you safe.
Every exterior door to your apartment must be equipped with a keyless bolting device. That is usually a deadbolt lock on your door that has a lever on the inside, but nothing on the outside. When locked, it means that even if someone you don’t want to enter your unit has a key, they cannot come in when you are home unless you choose to let them in yourself. The door is also required to have a wide-angle door viewer (a peephole), so you can see who is outside.
Naturally, your door must also have a keyed lock so you can lock your door when you leave.
Every openable window must have a window latch that allows you to lock it from the inside. Sliding glass doors must have a pin lock that can keep the door from being opened or lifted out of its track.
Locks and latches are of no value unless you use them. Get in the habit of using that keyless bolting device — it’s there for your safety.
Also, remember that double-cylinder deadbolts, which require a key from the inside as well as the outside, are prohibited on apartment doors by the Houston Fire Code.
Have questions about apartment living? Contact the Houston Apartment Association at 713595-0030 or visit www.haaonline.org/renters.