We know finding a community within your budget is important to you, but sometimes that extra boost of security can really make a place feel like home. Many Gainesville apartments provide their residents with courtesy patrol, a feature that generally includes an onsite courtesy officer that gives residents additional peace of mind and comfort. While each community will vary on the types of services offered, below are some of the services that could be offered:

• Checks windows, doors and alarms for security 
• Discourages and removers loiterers Locks and monitors buildings and facilities in your community 
• Regularly patrols community to prevent or stop crimes and wrongdoing 
• Reports any potential safety issues 
• Provides an escort to your car or apartment Parks police car in visible sight 
• Assists with minor neighborly disagreements

Your security officer may wear civilian clothing and live in your community. By renting in the same apartments he or she serves, the officer will be familiar with the area, residents, and community functions, giving them an advantage to the services they offer. Your landlord will be able to tell you about your courtesy patrol officer and where they are located, including contact information and how you can use the service. You can introduce yourself, share any concerns or needs, and let them know how much you appreciate their efforts! Other communities may contract with a security business and provide a uniformed officer that patrols the facilities. Check with your landlord for details about the service.

Other courtesy patrol services that might be offered include monitoring all lighting in areas such as parking, trails, and pool decks to ensure you and your guests feel safe and can enjoy your time outside even after dusk. Many apartments in Gainesville have 24 hour fitness centers or pools – it can be assuring to know you will have plenty of lighting available for a late night workout or swim. If this sounds like your routine, courtesy patrol can be a great feature to add to your search.

In addition to an officer onsite, you may also be interested in a community with gated apartments, which means that you and all your guests will need access or permission to enter the community. For residents, this generally includes a security card or access code to open the gate. Your guests will most likely enter a code or phone number that will dial your phone and request gate access. Some communities even come with alarm systems for an added layer of safety and protection while you enjoy all the comforts and luxuries of your new Gainesville apartment!