Owning rental properties in Killeen offers owners several financial rewards, including routine income, long-term ROI, and even tax benefits. There are a few challenges, too, however, and one of those challenges is keeping your property safe. When it’s occupied with tenants, you’re thinking about the safety and security of those tenants. When your property is vacant, you want to make sure it’s not a target for thieves, vandals, or squatters.
With tenants trusting landlords to provide a secure environment, you must prioritize security measures.
Let’s take a look at what you’re legally required to do, and the measures we recommend beyond those legal requirements to keep your property protected and your tenants safe.
Why Killeen Rental Property Security Matters
A secure rental property not only protects your investment but also contributes to better tenant satisfaction, which reduces vacancies and turnover. No one is going to rent a home that looks iffy when it comes to security. With increasing concerns about property crime, landlords must implement effective security strategies. It’s good for you, your property, and your Killeen tenants.
What Does the Texas Property Code Say about Rental Property Security?
Let’s start with the legal requirements around rental property safety.
The Texas Property Code outlines several security measures that rental property owners must implement. Here are the primary requirements:
- Window Latches
All exterior windows must be equipped with a functioning latch. This requirement is designed to prevent unauthorized entry and to provide overall safety for the property. Regularly inspect and maintain each window latch.
- Door Locks
Each exterior door must have certain types of locks, including deadbolts. All exterior doors must have a deadbolt lock that secures the door to the frame. This lock should have a one-inch throw bolt. In addition to a standard lock, a keyless bolting device or a door viewer is required to allow tenants to verify who is at the door before opening it.
- Sliding Door Pin Locks
Sliding glass doors must have pin locks or other devices that prevent the door from being lifted off its track. This measure helps ensure that sliding doors cannot be opened from the outside.
- Security Devices for Other Openings
Any other openings, such as garage doors or pet doors, may require additional security devices. While the Texas Property Code doesn’t specify additional requirements for these openings, it’s advisable to ensure they are secure.
- Peepholes
Under the Texas Property Code, rental homes must be equipped with peepholes to enhance security for tenants. A peephole allows residents to identify visitors before opening the door, thereby adding an additional layer of safety. The code specifies that peepholes should be installed in entry doors and should provide a clear view of the area outside. Ideally, the peephole should be positioned at a height that accommodates individuals of various states, ensuring accessibility for everyone. Landlords must ensure that the peephole is not obstructed and remains functional, as this small measure can significantly contribute to a tenant’s sense of security within their home.
Beyond the Legal Requirements: Security for Killeen Rental Homes
Now that you know what the Texas Property Code requires of you, let’s take a look at some of the strategies we recommend to further improve security and safety at your property.
- Lighting and Landscaping Strategies
Effective lighting and landscaping are essential components in enhancing the safety and security of Killeen rental properties. Light in exterior areas, such as pathways, front doors, and driveways, can deter potential intruders and improve visibility at night. Motion-sensor lights are particularly advantageous, as they snap on only when movement is detected, conserving energy while alerting residents of unexpected activity.
Incorporating landscaping strategies creates a secure environment as well. Low shrubs and well-maintained gardens not only give your property better curb appeal but also eliminate hiding spots for intruders. Fencing, along with strategically placed trees and plants, can serve privacy and security. Additionally, installing security cameras or smart lighting integrated with landscaping features can contribute to your tenant’s sense of safety while providing peace of mind.
- Security Cameras
Installing security cameras can act as a powerful deterrent against crime. Modern systems offer remote monitoring, so you can keep an eye on your property from anywhere. Security cameras, however, can present privacy concerns. Consider a video doorbell instead, which provides extra security without being intrusive.
- Alarm Systems
Consider installing an alarm system that can alert you and the authorities in case of a break-in. Many systems today can be integrated with mobile apps, providing real-time updates on your property’s status. Again, this will provide an element of security without being as creepy as a security camera might feel.
Regularly Inspect and Maintain Security Systems
Regular inspections of your property are important when you’re trying to keep your investment safe, especially when the rental home is vacant. An empty property can sometimes look like an invitation to criminals and thieves, so take the necessary steps to check on it. Keep it well-lit. Visit the property frequently. Ensure the sprinklers turn on when they normally would.
Schedule routine checks on alarms, locks, and lighting systems to confirm they’re functioning properly. Replace any faulty equipment promptly and consider upgrading older devices to maintain high security standards. Additionally, ensure that outdoor lighting is bright and covers all entry points, deterring potential intruders.
Educate Your Tenants on Security Awareness
Engaging your tenants in protecting your property can significantly enhance safety and make them feel good about where they’re living. Provide residents with guidelines on how to properly secure windows and doors, report suspicious activity, and maintain the property’s security features. Here are some of our most effective tenant education tips, based on our years of Killeen property management:
- Regular Communication. Keep in touch with tenants in a way that they feel comfortable coming to you with any questions or concerns about safety. You want them to report anything that feels suspicious or off. When you are willing to have open and transparent conversations with your residents, they’ll be willing to tell you what they see, hear, and feel around the neighborhood and at your property.
- Emergency Protocols. Provide clear guidelines on what to do in case of an emergency, including who to contact, how to respond to alarms, and the importance of reporting unusual activities. Tenants should be provided with your emergency procedures as soon as they move in.
- Encourage Locking Doors and Windows. Remind tenants to always secure their doors and windows when leaving their homes, and to report any maintenance issues regarding locks or hinges promptly. It’s easy to forget to lock a window when that window is open on a nice day. Reinforcing these best practices is a good idea.
- Shared Responsibility for Security. Security and safety need to be a partnership. Encourage your tenants to work with you on keeping the property safe.
- Highlight the Importance of Lighting. Educate tenants about the impact of adequate lighting on safety. Encourage them to report any areas that seem dim or unsafe and to utilize any outdoor lighting provided effectively. If changing light bulbs is their responsibility, make sure they know how to do it.
By incorporating these educational strategies, you can significantly enhance the safety and security awareness of your tenants, contributing to a more secure living environment.
Insurance Options for Killeen Landlords
Having the right insurance coverage is a crucial aspect of safeguarding your rental properties and assets. Landlords should consider several insurance options that will meet the specific needs of their properties. Landlord Insurance is designed to protect property owners from risks associated with renting out their homes. This typically includes coverage for property damage, liability protection in the event of tenant injuries, and loss of rental income due to property damage. Make sure you’re fully covered.
Another essential option is Rental Property Liability Insurance, which specifically covers legal costs and claims related to injuries or damages that occur on your property. We also talk to owners about umbrella insurance, which can be especially useful if you have many investment properties. This type of coverage provides an extra layer of liability coverage beyond standard policies, ensuring you’re financially protected against significant claims or lawsuits.
By carefully evaluating these insurance options, landlords can mitigate risks and enhance the overall security of their rental investments.
Investing in rental property security must be part of your plan for protecting your real estate assets and ensuring tenant safety. These are some of the best safety tips we can give you, but there’s a lot more to talk about. You want to create a secure living environment that attracts and retains quality tenants. So let’s make sure we do that.
Contact us at Shine Residential Property Management. We can help you achieve better peace of mind when it comes to securing your property, whether it’s vacant or occupied.
A property management company based in Harker Heights, Shine Residential Management cares for exceptional single-family homes throughout Central Texas, including in Killeen, Temple, Belton, Copperas Cove, Salado, and Georgetown.
