Being a renter you will probably not want to invest money into the security of the property you live in for you are only going to be there a short period of time. But you should do a cost benefit analysis?

• How much would a burglary cost you? Even if you are insured there is the policy excess the inconvenience of being without your items.
• Compare this with the cost of good, effective security. Normally this will cost less and give you peace of mind.

It is therefore a good idea that you choose the right home with security in mind, before you sign a contract. Don't be afraid to ask the landlord or the agent about the security of the property.

Tips for choosing your accommodation

Personal tips:

1. Visit potential homes in daylight
2. Bring someone with you
3. Tell someone where you are going
4. Check how far the home is from pubic transport

The property tips:

1. Does the landlord have a code of standards for security and safety?
2. Is there a reporting procedure and response for repairs if there is a burglary?
3. Is the garden / rear yard secure?
4. Is the rear gate lockable?
5. Is there outside lights?
6. Avoid high fences or bushes at the front as this will obscure your entry and exit from the property.
7. Are external doors solid? Look for signs of damage
8. Do all entry and exit doors have 5-lever mortise locks (it should say it on the lock)?
9. Does the house have an alarm?
10. Does the front door have a chain and door viewer?
11. Are windows lockable?
12. Make sure the lock can't be reached through the letter box
13. If the bedroom doors have locks - is it capable of being unlocked from the inside without a key?
14. Are smoke detectors carbon monoxide detectors fitted?

Living in rented accommodation tips:

1. If the accommodation has a communal area(s), be careful who you let in the building or who follows you in.
2. Lock your door even if your only going down the corridor.
3. If you on the ground floor avoid leaving items of value in view - such as laptops, mobile phones and tablets.
4. Close and lock your windows when you are not in the room - especially if you are on the ground floor.
5. Don't leave boxes by the bin which show recently brought items or that you have just moved in.
6. Check if your property is insured by the accommodation - Most universities now offer insurance as part of the rent so it is a good idea to check with your accommodation provider if you have any cover.  You should check if you need to top up the cover as most of these policies only offer a basic level of insurance.
7. Is the property easily recognisable as a student or a young persons property? Try and make it look like a family home remove to let signs, rubbish etc.
8. Don't leave notes for services / delivery agents saying your not at home.
9. If holding a party at your home, make sure you carefully control access. Thieves and trouble makers will target parties.
10. Best place to keep you keys is at the side of your bed. This obviously depends on if you are living on your own or have kids.  The most important rule is your safety in the event of a fire it is more important that you can all get out of the property than protecting your belongings.
11. Remember your keys are valuable to a burglar - so think what you would do if your keys were lost or stolen (please note some insurance polices may not cover you for burglary if your keys are lost of stolen).

You may also like to read:

• Winter Weather Advice For Property Owners
• Home and Car Keys Protection
• What To Do When You Have Been Burgled
• Ways To Save Money If You're Renting