Brookline Apartment Security Tips for Students and Renters

Brookline attracts thousands of students and young professionals with its proximity to Boston, excellent public transportation, and vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you're renting near Boston University, living in Coolidge Corner, or settling into South Brookline, apartment security should be your top priority. This guide covers everything renters need to know about staying safe in Brookline apartments.

• South Brookline - Close to BU campus, high student concentration
• Coolidge Corner area - Graduate students and young professionals
• Washington Street corridor - Mix of students and families
• Near Green Line stops - Popular for commuter convenience

• Triple-deckers - Traditional multi-family homes
• Garden-style apartments - Lower-rise complexes
• High-rise buildings - Modern apartments with doormen
• Converted single-families - Subdivided houses

• High turnover means frequent key changes needed
• Shared housing creates multiple access points
• Valuable electronics make apartments targets
• Irregular schedules (late classes, work) affect security routines
• Limited security budgets require cost-effective solutions

• Inadequate locks on older rental properties
• Too many key copies floating around from previous tenants
• Poor lighting around apartment entrances
• Unlocked common areas in multi-unit buildings
• Package theft from unsecured mailbox areas

1. Request lock rekeying - ensure previous tenants can't access your apartment
2. Test all locks and windows - make sure everything functions properly
3. Check door and window frames - ensure they're sturdy and secure
4. Locate emergency exits - know all ways out of your building
5. Document existing security features for your rental records

1. Install additional security (with landlord permission)
2. Introduce yourself to neighbors - build community security network
3. Learn building security protocols - buzzer systems, mailbox access, etc.
4. Set up mail forwarding to avoid identity theft from old addresses

• Lock rekeying for new tenancy (standard practice)
• Additional deadbolts if doors only have basic locks
• Window locks for ground-floor or accessible windows
• Improved lighting for dark entrances or hallways
• Mailbox security upgrades

• Who pays for lock changes during tenancy?
• What security improvements are tenant vs. landlord responsibility?
• Emergency contact procedures for lockouts
• Building security policies and access codes

• Door reinforcement - many older doors have weak frames
• Additional deadbolts - supplement existing locks
• Door viewers (peepholes) - see who's outside before opening
• Door jammers - portable security for added protection

• Smart locks - if landlord approves, great for key management
• Security chains - additional barrier when you're home
• Door alarms - portable devices that alert if door opens

• Window locks - essential for accessible windows
• Security film - makes glass harder to break
• Window sensors - alerts if windows are opened
• Curtains/blinds - prevent visibility of valuables inside

• Fire escape security - secure but ensure emergency access
• Airshaft windows - often overlooked but can be access points
• Sliding door security - if you have balcony access

• Individual bedroom locks - protect personal space and valuables
• Key management system - track who has access to what
• Shared area security - protect common electronics and furniture
• Guest policies - establish rules for visitors and overnight guests

• Temporary lock changes when subletting your room
• Secure personal items before temporary tenants move in
• Communication protocols with remaining roommates
• Legal protections for your belongings during sublease

• Battery-operated sensors that don't require installation
• Portable door alarms that activate when door moves
• Window break sensors for glass protection
• Motion-activated alarms for when you're away

• Portable cameras that don't require drilling or permanent installation
• Smart doorbells (if landlord permits) for package delivery monitoring
• Phone apps that control portable security devices
• Temporary smart locks that can be removed when moving

• Basic door/window alarms
• Portable door jammers
• Motion-sensor lights (battery operated)
• Security timers for lights when away

• Wireless security cameras
• Smart door locks (removable types)
• Complete alarm system kits
• Video doorbells

• Higher crime rates during move-in/move-out periods
• Package theft common due to frequent deliveries
• Party-related incidents require extra weekend security awareness
• Bicycle theft very common - secure bike storage essential

• Extra vigilant during August/September and May/June
• Coordinate with neighbors for package acceptance
• Be cautious of large gatherings and parties
• Invest in quality bike locks and indoor storage

• Business district means more foot traffic and activity
• Transportation hub creates more transient population
• Restaurant/bar area means late-night activity
• Higher rent areas may have better building security

• Take advantage of well-lit business areas when walking at night
• Use busy streets as safer routes
• Be aware of increased weekend activity
• Consider proximity to T-stop for late-night safety

• Bus route means constant traffic and activity
• Mixed residential/commercial creates varied security needs
• Diverse population requires community-building for security
• Older buildings may need more security attention

• Moving trucks and activity increase theft opportunities
• New students unfamiliar with area security needs
• Landlord transitions may create temporary security gaps
• Increased parties and social activities affect neighborhood security

• Early darkness requires improved lighting and awareness
• Snow/ice can disable security devices and lighting
• Holiday breaks when many students travel require extra precautions
• Weather emergencies may affect building security systems

• Move-out period increases theft and break-in risks
• Open windows for cooling affect security
• Vacation travel requires house-sitting or security arrangements
• Sublet transitions create key management challenges

1. Check all windows and other possible entry points
2. Contact roommates or people with spare keys
3. Call landlord or property management
4. Contact professional locksmith if needed

• Hide spare key in lockbox (with landlord permission)
• Give spare key to trusted local friend
• Consider smart lock with backup access codes
• Keep locksmith contact information easily accessible

1. Do NOT enter the apartment
2. Call 911 immediately
3. Contact landlord/property management
4. Document everything for police and insurance
5. Stay with trusted friend until situation resolved

• Know manual overrides for electronic locks
• Have backup lighting (flashlights, phone lights)
• Maintain emergency contact list
• Understand building emergency procedures

• Introduce yourself to immediate neighbors
• Exchange contact information for emergencies
• Coordinate package acceptance and mail monitoring
• Share information about suspicious activity

• Participate in building meetings if they exist
• Advocate for security improvements as a group
• Share costs for security upgrades when possible
• Create informal neighborhood watch arrangements

• Register for community alerts and updates
• Attend local safety meetings and workshops
• Report suspicious activity promptly
• Learn about local crime patterns and prevention

• Use campus security escorts when available
• Report off-campus incidents that may affect other students
• Take advantage of campus safety resources and education
• Coordinate with campus security for off-campus housing concerns

• Document security features when moving in
• Remove personal security devices carefully
• Don't leave spare keys or access codes behind
• Clean security equipment before removal

• Change locks immediately if you gave keys to others
• Cancel any security services in your name
• Remove personal information from building directories
• Forward mail properly to prevent identity theft

• Door/window checks and basic reinforcement
• Portable door alarms
• Basic lighting improvements
• Neighbor relationships and community building

• Additional deadbolts (with permission)
• Portable security cameras
• Smart door locks (removable)
• Window security film or locks

• Professional security system
• Multiple smart devices
• Safe for valuables
• Professional locksmith consultation

• Right to secure housing with functioning locks
• Right to request reasonable security improvements
• Protection from landlord entry without proper notice
• Right to change locks (with proper procedures)

• Maintain security devices properly
• Don't compromise building security for other tenants
• Follow lease requirements for modifications
• Report security issues promptly to landlord

• Covers theft of personal belongings
• May provide liability protection
• Often includes temporary housing if apartment becomes uninhabitable
• Very affordable for most renters