This is an article that explains the mortgage loan for purchasing a house in Japan where you or your relatives live. With Japanese home loans, the applicable interest rate is calculated by subtracting the amount of reduction according to the contract terms from the standard interest rate displayed at the store, so it is not possible to compare repayment terms just by looking at the low number advertised. Unlike the common view overseas of ``comparing the displayed interest rates themselves'', it is necessary to check the base interest rate, reduction amount, and conditions after the end of the period as a set. Furthermore, residential mortgage loans in Japan cannot be used for investment properties in principle, and screening and product characteristics are different from financing for income properties.
Crime prevention measures for condominiums | Owners and tenants should check common areas, residential units, and preparations for long-term absences
Just because a car is safe because it has an auto-lock system does not mean it is a crime prevention measure. In apartment complexes, it is important to create an environment where intruders are difficult to enter and are easily noticed, by ensuring that common entrances and hallways are visible, locking windows and entrances, and checking for visitors.
For apartment complexes, the National Police Agency indicates measures for visibility and illumination of common entrances, elevator halls, etc., measures to prevent entrance doors of residential units from being pried open, and countermeasures for windows. In this article, we will summarize the crime prevention measures that the owner/management association and tenants should take together.
Key points of this article
- For common areas, prioritize visibility, lighting, access control, and inspection of blind spots.
- For residential units, it is essential to lock windows and entrances, check for visitors, and consider parts with high security performance.
- Changes to rental equipment should be made after checking the management regulations and rental agreement.
- When you are away for a long time, arrange your mail, lighting, and contact information so that you do not continue to show your absence.
Why are crime prevention measures for condominiums divided between common areas and residential units?
Common areas are areas that are maintained by owners, management associations, and management companies, while residential units are areas that are used by residents on a daily basis. By dividing the responsibility, you can avoid relying too much on the equipment and reduce the number of omissions in countermeasures.
The National Police Agency's precautions for apartment complexes include measures to be taken for the visibility and illuminance of common entrances and elevator halls, and for entrance doors and windows of residential units. Decide on priorities depending on the size and structure of the building.
What owners/management associations should check in common areas
First, we inspect public entrances, bicycle parking lots, garbage storage areas, outside stairs, and parking lots for blind spots, including at night. Make sure that the visibility is not obstructed by plants, notices, or abandoned items, and that there are no lights out.
Installing cameras and auto-locks is not the only thing you need to do. We will notify residents of the precautions to be taken when entering the facility, assuming that visitors will enter from behind, and will decide who will manage the recordings, how long they will be kept, and who to contact in the event of a breakdown. When renewing equipment, we not only consider crime prevention, but also maintenance costs and the handling of personal information.
Basic measures for residents to take in their housing units
Preventing intrusions starts with locking the front door and windows, whether you are at home or leaving the house for a short time. The National Police Agency has shown that in residential buildings, including apartment complexes, break-ins tend to occur through windows and front doorways. Auxiliary locks, security films, and security building parts with the CP mark can be considered depending on the situation of the dwelling unit.
Check with visitors using the intercom or door scope before opening the door. If you are suspicious of a visit claiming to be for delivery or inspection, please check with the official contact information of the management company or operator. If you plan to install equipment that requires construction work such as drilling holes in a rental property, consult with the landlord/management company in advance.
What should I prepare when I'm away for a long time?
Before you leave for a trip or return home, arrange mail handling, interior lighting, and emergency contact information. Remaining items in the mailbox, lights out every day, and public posts on social media can lead to speculation that the person is absent. If necessary, use postal mail detention to confirm the scope of contact with the management company and contact information in case of an emergency.
Crime prevention is not meant to stir up anxiety. Continuing to lock doors, check for visitors, and inspect common areas on a daily basis will reduce the chances of damage.
INA's view｜Create a system to continue daily checks before checking equipment
Expensive equipment alone does not determine the safety of a building. Are the lights out, are blind spots increasing, and do residents know who to contact in case of a problem? These daily checks are the foundation of crime prevention.
Owners should check the status of common areas through reports, and residents should make it a habit to respond to the entrance, windows, and visitors. Measures that can be continued by dividing each role will protect both livability and asset value.
Summary
- Check visibility, lighting, blind spots, and access control for common areas.
- Doors and windows of residential units will be locked and visitors will be checked thoroughly.
- Verify prior approval for equipment changes in rentals.
- If you are absent for a long period of time, arrange mail, lighting, and emergency contact information.
FAQ
If I have an auto-lock system, do I need to take any measures in my apartment?
It's not unnecessary. Auto-locking is part of entrance management, and must be done in conjunction with locking the entrance and windows and confirming visitors.
Can I add an auxiliary lock or security film even if I rent?
This may affect restoration to original condition and management regulations. Please check with the management company or landlord before drilling or gluing.
Where should I install security cameras?
It depends on the structure of the building. We will check blind spots such as common entrances and exits, bicycle parking areas, garbage storage areas, and external stairs, and consider the management and use of personal information.
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