Shortlet apartments are currently really popular across the world, including Lagos due to the cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and  amount of privacy that they offer. However, they come with a challenge. some safety hazards occur during guests’ stay at short lets in Lagos due to their own negligence or the fault of the host. So, it is advisable to know about the safety hazards and safety tips when staying in a short lets. This article will discuss a few safety tips you MUST know before you rent a short let.

4 Safety Hazards Guests Face at Short Let Apartments

1. Location-related hazards

Some short lets are located in odd areas with little to no security measures, poor lighting, or high crime rates. If a guest rents such an apartment, they will be exposed to a high risk of getting robbed or assaulted.

2. Electrical and fire hazards

If a shortlet relies solely on generators, there is a risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Faulty wiring, power surges, and substandard electrical installations can also lead to fire outbreaks.

3. Security hazards

Allowing unlimited visitor access can lead to security breaches. More importantly, some shortlets lack the proper safety equipment like CCTV cameras, alarms, or proper locks and this can put guests at risk.

4. Health and sanitary hazards 

Poor sanitation, pest control, and bad quality of water can all put the health of guests at risk. Unmaintained facilities can grow molds and this could increase or cause respiratory issues for guests.

5 Safety Tips you MUST Know Before Staying at a Shortlet Apartment in Lagos

1. Confirm the legitimacy of the apartment 

This is especially important before booking a shortlet apartment. You should confirm the credibility of the property and the legitimacy of the host or owner before booking so as to avoid being scammed out of your money. Beware of prices that look too good to be true because most times, they indicate fraudulent listings. The legitimacy of an apartment or property can also be validated by verified listings and consistent positive reviews.

2. Choose secure locations

When deciding on a short let apartment, be sure to pick one in a secure location to be safe. It is advisable to pick shortlets in known and reputable areas such as Ikoyi, Lekki, Ikeja, Victoria Island, and a few others you may know. You can also make use of the reviews to verify the safety of an apartment but be sure that it is located close enough to police stations, checkpoints, or gated estates with high security. All these can enhance your security when you choose a shortlet apartment in Lagos

3. Be ready for emergencies 

The level of privacy you get at shortlet apartments in Lagos can also be a disadvantage when an emergency occurs so, to be on the safer side, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with emergency facilities around the location of your shortlet. Knowing the location of hospitals, police stations, and the fire service can go a long way when an emergency occurs. You could also learn emergency contacts listed on your phone or share your location with trusted people.

4. Be sure of security measures 

Inspect the apartment before confirming your booking. Before you rent a shortlet apartment in Lagos, be sure to check for CCTV cameras, alarms, security personnel, and secure locks. You should also check the windows and doors to be sure they all have functional locks. In case of a fire emergency due to risks of power surges and generator usage, be sure that fire safety equipment like fire extinguishers and smoke detectors are present.

5. Adhere to the apartment rules 

Many shortlet apartments have rules and policies that guests are supposed to follow. So, before booking a shortlet apartment, familiarize yourself with such rules and policies concerning smoking, parties, pets, and visitor allowances to avoid any misunderstandings that may occur from not following any of them. If any of the rules or policies are unclear from the listings info, make sure to have the host clarify them to avoid compromising your safety or resulting penalties.

Conclusion

While shortlet apartments in Lagos are beneficial in most ways, there are certain hazards you need to be aware of before renting one to avoid putting yourself or your loved ones at risk. So, if you are a traveler or tourist, be sure to carry out thorough research on an apartment before booking. If you take note of these tips and make use of them, you will have a smoother experience with Shortlets in Lagos.