Managing a house of multiple occupation (HMO) presents a distinct set of security challenges compared to managing a traditional single residential dwelling. Shared access, higher tenant turnover and limited control over who comes and goes can leave your property vulnerable to break-ins and insurance disputes. But upgrading your HMO’s security doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Let’s explore some smart, affordable HMO security ideas that will protect your property and give both you and your tenants peace of mind.
Why HMO Security Needs to Be a Priority
It’s easy to assume your standard security setup is enough, but HMOs are often more exposed to risk than single-let properties. More people means more keys, more foot traffic, and more opportunities for something to go wrong. If the locks haven’t been changed in years or there’s no clear control over who has access, you could be facing serious problems.
Worse still, insurers may refuse to pay out if your security isn’t up to scratch. Landlords have a responsibility to ensure properties are protected. Failing to do so could result in financial losses and damage to your reputation. For a deeper look into what can go wrong, take a look at our article on security mistakes that cost landlords their insurance.
Upgrade Entry Points Without Replacing Doors
HMO landlord security starts by reviewing the condition of your locks. Standard euro cylinders are easy targets for burglars, especially if they’re not anti-snap. High-security locks offer more protection and are surprisingly cost-effective.
If you’re managing multiple tenants or need a fast turnover between lets, consider smart locks. You can update codes or issue new fobs without physically changing the hardware. For more options, our lock changes and repair service covers a range of secure, insurance-compliant upgrades.
Shared Access? Smart Access Control Might Be Better
Traditional keys can be a nightmare for HMO landlords. Keys get copied, go missing, or end up in the wrong hands. Keypad entry or fob access systems offer a cleaner solution. You control who gets in and when, and there’s no need to reissue physical keys between tenants.
These systems are ideal for front doors, communal areas, and shared entrances. They’re scalable, easy to use, and can even log who accessed the property and when. Our access control installation services include a complimentary property assessment to determine the best HMO access control setup for your building.
Affordable CCTV for Shared Spaces
You don’t need a huge surveillance system to protect your HMO. A few well-placed CCTV cameras around entrances and communal areas can act as a strong deterrent. They also help resolve disputes, monitor behaviour, and support any police investigation if something does happen.
With a modern HMO CCTV installation, you can view footage on your phone and even set alerts for unusual activity. For more on how this works, check out our post on how CCTV can keep your home safe.
Make the Most of Lighting and Visible Deterrents
Good lighting is one of the simplest and cheapest ways to boost security. Motion-activated lights around entrances, side alleys, and rear access points can make a huge difference. They deter intruders, make tenants feel safer, and reduce the chances of accidental damage or trips and falls.
There are several ways of making your HMO look more secure. These include making sure alarms on windows and doors are prominent, adding security and warning signs deterring unauthorised entry, and making locks and door and window reinforcement visible to passers by. These small touches go a long way in deterring opportunistic burglars.
Meet Insurance Requirements Without Breaking the Bank
Many landlords don’t realise their current setup might not meet the terms set by their insurers. And if something goes wrong, that can mean no payout. An easy way to avoid this? Book a free visit with our team. Our property security survey identifies gaps and offers tailored recommendations, from simple upgrades to system overhauls.
A free security audit for HMO property owners looking to stay ahead of landlord insurance compliance and reduce their risk.
Support Your Tenants to Keep the Property Safe
Security isn’t just about locks and cameras. It’s about how the property is used every day. Clear signage, secure post boxes, and basic advice on locking doors and not buzzing in strangers can prevent many issues. The more you, your portfolio managers, letting agents, and property developers educate tenants, the fewer security problems you’ll face.
How To Secure A Shared Property With Security Masters
Securing an HMO property doesn’t automatically require expensive overhauls. It just needs intelligent, targeted thinking. From improving security locks and smart access control to strategic lighting and CCTV, even relatively small changes can help protect your investment. Ensuring compliance with insurance standards and supporting tenants further reduces risks, keeping your property running smoothly. At Security Masters, we help landlords, developers, and agents secure shared HMO properties without overspending.
Contact the Security Masters team for expert security guidance. Let’s make your HMO safer, more secure, and worry-free, for less.
