Security works best as a set of ordinary, well-maintained measures rather than a promise that a home cannot be burgled. For a landlord, a useful starting point is to check whether doors and windows close, latch and lock properly, give tenants a clear way to report faults, and deal with problems before they are left unresolved.
Check the entry points
Walk around the property and test each accessible door and window in the normal way. Look for loose handles, damaged frames, stiff locks, broken catches and doors that do not sit properly in their frames. Do not ask a tenant to rely on a lock that sticks or a window that will not secure. If a fitting needs replacement, ask a qualified locksmith or installer which option suits that door or window; there is no single lock that fits every home.
Police guidance advises people to secure doors fully and notes that some multipoint doors need the handle lifted before the key is turned. It also recommends paying attention to accessible windows and checking how bins, garden furniture or walls might provide an easy step up. These are practical prompts for a walk-round, not guarantees of protection. Keep a clear route to entrances and make sure any new security fitting can still be used safely by the people who live there.
Make repairs easy to report
Give tenants a simple contact route for faults with doors, windows, gates, lighting or other access points. Ask them to describe the problem and, where useful, send a photograph. Record when it was reported, what was arranged and when the repair was completed. If a fault could affect safety or leave the home unsecured, respond promptly and agree access with the occupier.
In England, GOV.UK says landlords are responsible for repairs to the structure and exterior of a rented home. Its repair guidance also points out that different rules apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Check the rules for the property’s location and the tenancy or lease before deciding who should arrange work.
Review the whole approach
At handover, show tenants how existing locks and alarms work, explain how to report a problem and make clear who to contact if a repair is urgent. Keep keys and access arrangements organised, and agree any planned upgrade with the occupier before work begins. If you manage several homes, add a brief security check to your routine maintenance calendar rather than waiting for a fault to be noticed.
Small checks will not remove every risk, and property layouts differ. The aim is to keep everyday access points working, make faults visible and give tenants a clear route to raise concerns. For specialist security advice, use current police guidance or speak with a qualified locksmith.
Further reading: Metropolitan Police, Door and window lock advice: https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/protect-home-crime/door-window-lock-advice/ and Window security: https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/protect-home-crime/window-security/ ; GOV.UK, Private renting: repairs: https://www.gov.uk/private-renting/repairs. Guidance checked 26 October 2026.