If you are in the process of moving your belongings into a new apartment, you are most likely excited about getting used to your new home. At the time of your move, it will be important to take some steps to ensure your new dwelling is safe. There are several steps you can take to protect yourself and your belongings from potential theft when moving into a new apartment. Try some of the following tips to decrease the likelihood of becoming a victim to a robbery.

Make A Call To A Locksmith Immediately

Before you place items inside of your new living space, it is best to contact a locksmith to change all the locks in the apartment. If your landlord gives you the key to your apartment, indicate that you will be paying to have the locks changed at your expense since you do not know who else may have a copy of the current key. Make sure to give your landlord a copy of the new key to use in case of an emergency. If the landlord refuses to allow you to change the locks, indicate you will not be signing a rental agreement and look for a new place to live.

Use Lighting To Make People Think You Are Home

Invest in a timed lighting system to use within your new apartment. This will automatically turn on your programmed light fixtures at the times you designate. Do not select the top of the hour or half-hour as your turn on times, as this may be noted if someone is watching your apartment to determine your habits. It is also best to change the times often so people are not able to distinguish a pattern in your lighting usage, perhaps tipping them off that a timing system is being used.

Make Your Home Appear To Be Busy With Visitors

If you do not have a vehicle of your own, ask friends to park in your allotted space from time to time so it looks as if someone is spending time inside the apartment. Add a pair of work boots or a flannel shirt to your porch to make it look as if someone had just come in from the job to spend time inside of the apartment. Keeping a radio or television on when you are not home can be helpful in keeping people from trying to get inside of your home. Introduce your neighbors to any friends or family you have stop by as well, as this will make it appear as if there may be people visiting quite often, making it less likely someone will try to gain entry to your apartment if they think someone is inside.

For more information, contact local professionals like Arapahoe County Security Center Inc.