15 Questions to Ask Before Renting for Your Safety (for Women Living Alone)

Renting your own place is such a big step. 

It feels good to have your own space, your own rules. But if you’re living alone, I know it can also feel a little worrying.

I’ve been there too.

When you’re looking at a new place, it’s easy to get distracted by the nice kitchen or the pretty floors. But the most important thing is making sure you’ll feel safe once you move in.

That’s why I put this list together.

These 15 questions will help you know what to ask before you sign anything. 

They’ll help you spot any problems early, so you can choose a place that feels right and safe.

Save this list, write it down, or keep it on your phone. You deserve to feel safe at home. Always.

How to Use These Questions

Don’t worry about sounding picky or pushy. These questions are for you, so you can feel good about where you’re going to live.

You can ask them during a tour, over the phone, or even by email. Whatever feels easiest.

If you’re nervous, write them down or keep this list on your phone. That way, you won’t forget anything important.

And pay attention to how the landlord answers. If they seem annoyed or avoid the question, that might be a sign to think twice.

Your safety matters more than anything else. Don’t be afraid to ask.

1. Do you change the locks between tenants?

You want to know you’re the only one with a key to your place. Some landlords skip this step to save money, which can mean old tenants (or their friends) might still have a copy.

It’s okay to ask directly. A good landlord should say yes, they rekey or change locks every time someone new moves in.

If they don’t? Think carefully about whether you’ll really feel safe living there.

2. Who else has a key to the unit?

It’s important to know exactly who can get into your apartment. Usually, the landlord or maintenance staff will have a key for emergencies or repairs.

Ask them how many people have access, and how they let you know before coming in. You don’t want any surprises.

A good landlord will be upfront and respect your privacy by giving you notice before anyone enters.

3. Is there 24/7 emergency maintenance?

Stuff breaks. Locks jam. Pipes leak. It happens.

Ask if there’s someone you can call anytime, day or night if something goes wrong. Especially if it’s something that could make you feel unsafe, like a broken lock or window.

Knowing there’s help available 24/7 can give you real peace of mind when you’re living alone.

4. How secure are the building entrances?

If it’s an apartment building, find out if there’s controlled access, locked entry doors, or security codes.

You want to know that random people can’t just wander in.

A secure front entrance helps keep everyone safer, and it shows the landlord takes security seriously.

5. What’s the policy on guest access?

Ask how visitors get in, especially in bigger buildings. Can anyone buzz themselves in? Do they need to be let in by a tenant?

You’ll want to know how easy it is for strangers to enter.

A clear, controlled guest policy helps make sure only people who belong there can get inside.

6. Are there security cameras in common areas?

It’s good to know if there are cameras in places like entrances, hallways, or parking lots.

Security cameras can help deter crime and make you feel safer coming and going, especially at night.

Ask where they’re located and if they’re working. A landlord who invests in cameras usually cares about tenant safety.

7. How is the parking area lit and secured?

If you have a car or plan to park nearby, ask about lighting and security.

Good lighting helps you feel safer walking alone at night. Gated or monitored lots add extra peace of mind.

It’s okay to ask to see the parking area during your visit, so you know exactly what it’s like.

8. What’s the neighborhood crime rate like?

It’s okay to ask about safety in the area. A good landlord should have a general idea.

You can also check local crime maps online, but hearing their answer can tell you a lot.

If they seem honest and open, that’s a good sign. If they dodge the question or act defensive, trust your gut.

9. Are there working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?

This is basic, but so important. Safety isn’t just about crime—it’s also about emergencies inside your home.

Ask if detectors are installed and regularly tested.

A landlord who takes this seriously is showing they care about your well-being.

10. How often is pest control or inspection done?

Safety isn’t only about locks and cameras—it’s also about your health.

Ask how often they do pest control or routine checks.

A clean, well-maintained building is safer and more comfortable, and a good landlord will have a plan for keeping it that way.

11. How do you handle package deliveries?

If you shop online a lot, you’ll want to know your stuff won’t go missing.

Ask if there’s a secure place for deliveries, lockers, or if packages are held in an office.

It might seem small, but knowing your things are safe can make living alone feel a lot easier.

12. What’s the procedure for reporting safety concerns?

It’s important to know how problems get handled.

Ask who you’d talk to if something feels unsafe, like a broken lock, bad lighting, or suspicious activity.

A clear process means they’re serious about fixing issues and keeping you safe.

13. How quickly do you respond to maintenance requests?

A broken lock or window isn’t something you want to wait days to fix.

Ask how fast they usually handle repairs, especially urgent ones.

A good landlord will have a clear answer and take safety-related fixes seriously.

14. Are there any upcoming renovations or vacancies?

It’s smart to know if lots of units are empty or if big projects are planned.

Empty apartments can mean fewer neighbors around to notice problems. Renovations can mean workers coming and going.

Asking helps you know what to expect—and plan for your own comfort and safety.

15. What insurance coverage is required or recommended?

It’s always good to know what protection you’ll need.

Ask if renters’ insurance is required, and what it typically covers, like theft or damage.

It’s an extra layer of security for your stuff and shows the landlord is upfront about what you’re responsible for.

One Last Thing Before You Go

I know it can feel a little awkward asking all these questions. But remember—this is your home. You have every right to make sure it’s safe and that you’ll feel good living there.

If a landlord seems annoyed or avoids answering, that’s a sign to think twice. Don’t ignore your gut.

You deserve to feel safe, comfortable, and confident about where you live.

So save this list, keep it on your phone, or write it down. Bring it with you the next time you go apartment hunting.

Because you deserve a home that feels like yours—a place where you can truly relax, knowing you’re safe. Always.