Tighten Security? A Resident’s Checklist

Checklist

1) Building entrance & access

• Entrance door closes and locks on first swing (no slow closers or bounce-back)
• Lock and strike plate aligned; no play in the door or frame
• Intercom/entry system responsive; audio clear; call buttons labelled
• No wedging/props; signage in place stating “Do not hold this door open”
• Anti-tailgating habits in place; residents reminded not to let unknowns follow in

Notes / actions:

2) Common areas: lobbies, hallways, stairwells

• Lighting working; no dark corners; bulbs replaced where needed
• CCTV (if fitted) powered, lenses clean, no blind spots at doors/parcel areas
• Windows and secondary exits shut and lockable
• No obstructions that could hide intruders (stacked boxes, screens, bikes)
• Noticeboard up to date with emergency and manager contacts

Notes / actions:

3) Perimeter: gates, bins, bike stores, rear access

• Gate locks/functioning closers; no signs of tampering
• Bins and ladders stored so they can’t be used to climb
• Bike store locked; no abandoned or stripped frames
• External lighting working on sensors (test at dusk if possible)

Notes / actions:

4) Visitor management

• Residents understand: don’t buzz in unknown callers; verify first
• Delivery guidance posted (where to leave parcels; no door-propping)
• Trades access protocol agreed (time-limited codes, escorted access)

Notes / actions:

5) Within your flat

• Front door: deadlock and latch both working; chain or bar present and used
• Window locks fitted and used, especially on accessible levels
• Valuables not visible from street; curtains/blinds close properly
• Spare keys stored securely (not under mats, pots, or meter cupboards)

Notes / actions:

6) Windows, balconies, fire escapes

• Accessible windows closed/locked when out
• Balcony items not enabling climbs (stacked furniture near edges)
• Fire escapes secured against external entry while safe for evacuation

Notes / actions:

7) Keys, fobs & codes

• No code sharing outside your household; old codes rotated/expired
• Lost fobs reported and deactivated; fob list reconciled quarterly
• Lock changes considered after tenant turnover or lost keys

Notes / actions:

8) Lighting & deterrents

• Motion lights cover entrances, bike stores, rear access
• Dummy or real cameras clearly visible where appropriate
• Clear sightlines: shrubs trimmed; no cover for loitering

Notes / actions:

9) Communication & reporting

• Residents know how to report suspicious activity (999 urgent / 101 non-urgent)
• Building WhatsApp/email group active for quick alerts and updates
• Recent incidents logged and shared with the block manager

Notes / actions

10) After a break-in (read and retain)

• Do not enter if you suspect someone’s inside; call 999
• Preserve the scene; wait for police; get crime reference number
• Notify block manager to secure doors/windows and review building measures

Notes / actions:

11)Working with your building manager

• Faults reported: door closers, locks, intercoms, CCTV, lighting
• Ask about upgrades (e.g., auto-locking closer, fob audits, parcel cage)
• Request periodic security walk-through on inspections

Notes / actions:

Today’s action log
Fixed today:
To schedule:
Target dates:
Follow-up photos saved: Yes / No