There’s a door that separates my room from the landlord’s room next door, and I don’t trust him. He claims he keeps it locked, but I’ve noticed my stuff gets moved or messed with. I can’t move out yet, and confronting him isn’t an option either. I installed a door lever lock on my side, but I’m still worried it’s not enough. Things like a door jammer or stopper won’t work because they’d need to be on his side. Any ideas for keeping this door shut and secure?
You could try a security device that alerts you if the door is opened. Some even have alarms to scare people off. That way, if you catch him in the act, you can decide what to do next, maybe even take legal action if needed.
What about putting a bookcase in front of the door? Or leaning a bunch of stuff like brooms, sports gear, or even old fluorescent tubes you don’t care about? Also, setting up a camera aimed at the door can help. If the landlord or someone else opens the door, they’ll see the camera and hopefully back off. It could even just be a curious kid.
Could you install a second door on your side, like how hotel rooms with shared doors are set up?
ashleyn said:
Could you install a second door on your side, like how hotel rooms with shared doors are set up?
You think they’ll let him put up another door in the landlord’s house?
@Leroy
Why not? It’s worth asking.
You can use a door bar that doesn’t rely on the other side. Look up ‘outswing security bar.’ Some of them have plates that you screw into the floor, or they can brace between the door and a nearby wall.
Try using four wedges—one at the top, bottom, and sides. Hammer them in tightly. You can also get alarms that hang on the doorknob to alert you if it’s moved. And if you want to get creative, glitter bombs are always an option!
Does the door swing into your space? You might want to check out those hotel security gadgets.
Chris said:
Does the door swing into your space? You might want to check out those hotel security gadgets.
No, it swings into his space.
Aqara makes affordable sensors that are easy to set up. The hub is about $50, and individual sensors are around $20. These can notify you when the door is opened and even trigger a small alarm. It won’t stop the landlord from entering, but it will alert you right away. You can even add sensors to other things, like drawers where you keep valuables.