Top Budget-Friendly Security Tips for Roommates

Sharing an apartment with roommates can be cost-effective and fun—but it also comes with unique safety concerns. According to the National Crime Prevention Council, rental properties are more vulnerable to burglaries than owner-occupied homes. The good news? You don’t need a massive budget to protect your shared space.

Here are the best budget-friendly security tips for roommates to improve your apartment’s safety without breaking the bank.

1. Establish a Roommate Security Agreement

Open communication is the foundation of a safe living environment. Sit down with your roommates and discuss key safety habits:

Always lock doors and windows—even for quick errands.
Don’t prop open main entrances.
Keep garage or storage access closed.

Create a simple written agreement everyone can follow. Teamwork and accountability reduce mistakes that leave your apartment vulnerable.

2. Reinforce Doors and Windows

Your doors and windows are the most vulnerable points of entry for intruders. A study by the FBI found that 34% of burglars enter through the front door, so making it as secure as possible is crucial. Reinforce them with robust security measures:

Strong Locks: Upgrade to sturdy deadbolts and strike plates on all exterior doors. Consider adding a chain lock for an additional layer of protection.
Window Locks: Install window locks on all accessible windows. For added security, consider using window security film, which makes it more difficult for intruders to break through the glass.
Smart Locks: If your budget allows, smart locks offer convenient features like keyless entry, remote access control, and activity logs, enhancing both convenience and security.
Sliding Glass Doors: Secure sliding glass doors with a dowel or commercially available security bar to prevent them from being lifted off their tracks.

3. Light Up Entry Points

Burglars prefer darkness. Keep entryways well-lit with:

Motion sensor lights ($15–$50)
Smart lights you can control from your phone

Install lights around entrances, driveways, and back patios. Even battery-powered models work great for renters.

4. Invest in Alarm System

A home security system doesn't need to be expensive to be effective. DIY options like Kangaroo Home Security offer affordable starter kits with motion detectors, door/window sensors, video doorbell, photo doorbell, and sirens. Even the presence of a security sign can deter would-be thieves. Statistics show that homes without security systems are 300% more likely to be burglarized.

5. Leverage the Power of Cameras

Home security cameras are a powerful deterrent and can provide valuable evidence if a crime occurs. Consider installing a video doorbell to monitor your front door, allowing you to see and communicate with visitors remotely. Place outdoor cameras to cover blind spots and monitor entry points. Even an indoor camera in a common area can be beneficial for added security and peace of mind.

6. Start a Mini Neighborhood Watch

You don’t need a full-blown program—just connect with nearby neighbors and exchange contact info. Watchful communities see fewer break-ins.

7.Hide Your Valuables and Spare Keys:

Don't make it easy for thieves. Keep valuables like jewelry, electronics, and cash in a fireproof safe. Avoid leaving spare keys in obvious hiding places like under the doormat or in a flower pot. Instead, give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or friend.

Additional Tips:

Be Mindful of Social Media: Avoid posting about your vacation plans or whereabouts on social media, as this could alert potential intruders that your home is empty.
Change the Locks: If you're moving into a new place, it's a good idea to change the locks, as you don't know who might have copies of the old keys.
Secure Your Garage: Don't forget to lock your garage door and any access points to your home from the garage.
Remove Ladders and Tools: Don't leave ladders or tools outside that could be used to break into your home.
Close Blinds and Curtains at Night: This prevents potential burglars from seeing inside your home and assessing your valuables.

8. Social Media Awareness

Avoid posting your travel plans or daily schedule on social platforms. Public posts can unintentionally advertise an empty apartment to opportunistic burglars.

By implementing these budget-friendly security measures, you and your roommates can create a safer and more secure living environment. Remember, it's not about creating a fortress, but about making your home less of a target and deterring potential intruders.

Bonus: Security Upgrade Cost Breakdown

To help you plan your security budget, here's a breakdown of estimated costs for common security measures:

Item	Estimated Cost (USD)
Deadbolts	$15-$50 per lock
Strike plates	$5-$15 each
Window locks	$5-$20 per lock
Window security film	$10-$30 per window
Smart locks	$100-$300 per lock
Motion sensor lights	$15-$50 per light
Smart lights	$15-$50 per bulb
Basic DIY home security system	$100-$300
Security camera	$20-$200 per camera (indoor/outdoor)
Video doorbell	$50-$250
Fireproof safe	$30-$200
Garage door lock	$20-$50
Security sign	$10-$20

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Watch Out for These Common Apartment Security Mistakes

Many renters unintentionally make their homes easier targets. Avoid these frequent mistakes:

Leaving doors or windows unlocked
Sharing door codes or access info too freely
Hiding spare keys outside
Not reporting suspicious activity
Skipping out on insurance or safety discussions

Simple habits like locking up and staying alert go a long way.

Final Thoughts: Safety Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

By following these budget-friendly security tips for roommates, you can drastically reduce your risk of burglary—even on a tight budget. Small, proactive steps go a long way in deterring criminals and protecting your peace of mind.

Did You Know?

The majority of burglaries happen during the day when homes are likely to be unoccupied. That's why it's crucial to secure your home even if you're just stepping out for a quick errand.

Simple actions like locking doors and windows can deter opportunistic thieves and significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of theft.