Choosing the wrong apartment complex can mean break-ins, car theft, and feeling unsafe in your own home. Here's how to evaluate before you commit.
Step 1: Check the crime data
- CrimeMapping.com — Free. Enter the address and see police calls in the surrounding area.
- SpotCrime.com — Similar tool, slightly different data sources.
- NeighborhoodScout — Paid but most comprehensive.
Step 2: Visit at night
- Drive through the parking lot at 10 PM on a weekday. Is it well-lit? Are there broken lights?
- Are there security cameras? Are they real or fake (no wires, obviously plastic)?
- Check for broken gates, propped-open security doors.
Step 3: Check the property's history
- Google "[complex name] crime" or "[complex name] shooting"
- Check Dallas County or Tarrant County court records for lawsuits against the property
- Look at recent Google reviews — filter by 1-star and search for "break-in," "stolen," "unsafe"
Step 4: Ask the right questions
- "How many units were broken into last year?"
- "Is the parking garage gated? Camera-monitored?"
- "What's the lease penalty for safety-related lease termination?"
Texas law note: Under Texas Property Code 92.0561, if your apartment has been the victim of a crime (or is in an area of criminal activity), you may be able to break your lease penalty-free with a police report and proper notice.
Red flags:
- Gates that are "always broken"
- No security cameras in parking areas
- Management that gets defensive about safety questions
- Multiple units with boarded-up or broken windows
Sources:
- CrimeMapping.com
- NeighborhoodScout.com
- Texas Property Code 92.0561
- Dallas County / Tarrant County court records
A cheap apartment is never cheap if your car gets broken into every month.