Home security ignored by 45pc of renters
Investors should never leave home security to their tenants and need to ensure their properties are protected, according to a recent report into property security.
Almost half (45 per cent) of renters disregard their home security, compared to 21 per cent of homeowners, ADT Security’s 2012 Secure Homes Report found.
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Fewer renters also take precautions before going on holidays, with 68 per cent asking a neighbour or friend to keep an eye out, compared to 80 per cent of homeowners, and 10 per cent of renters activating an alarm system, compared to 25 per cent of homeowners.
Barry Comben, of Hugh Reilley Real Estate in Mackay, recommends that both landlord insurance and tenant insurance be taken out to ensure protection against damage and loss of property.
“We’ve got a couple of insurance companies that we recommend,” Mr Comben said.
While insurance against burglary itself is usually the responsibility of the tenant, investors should undertake measures to make sure the property less attractive for those looking to break and enter, he said.
“The landlord should have things like locks and alarms sorted in the first place, before the tenant even moves in.”
The Secure Homes report also shows that despite 30 per cent of respondents experiencing a break-in, 77 per cent don’t believe burglary is a problem in their area.
The report surveyed 2,000 homeowners and renters from across Australia in December 2011.
