I'm looking for ways to separate our main living area from the basement where my in-laws are staying. My father-in-law has some troubling behavior that makes me feel unsafe, especially because he might have easy access to our space when we're not home. We're already planning to change the locks on our doors, but I'm considering installing a door at the bottom or top of the basement stairs. I think a door at the bottom would be better since it's less obtrusive and wouldn't pose a fire hazard, as they have their own back entrance. I'd appreciate any tips or suggestions on how to make this work. Thanks!
3 Answers
Honestly, the best way to ensure your peace of mind is to not let your FIL stay in your home at all. That said, if you’ve got to manage the situation for financial reasons, having a door at the bottom of the stairs makes sense. Just remember, fire safety is key, so make sure they have easy access to get out in case of an emergency.
It's tough being in your position. You might want to think about using a security camera to monitor access points, just in case things get sketchy. But don't forget about fire exits! With a basement living area, it’s crucial to have at least two ways out. A door at the bottom shouldn't hinder that as long as you also have their back door.
Installing a door at the bottom sounds like a solid plan! Just make sure to put a reliable alarm on it to prevent them from avoiding it. They definitely need more than one exit for safety, especially in a basement. Just keep those fire exit routes clear!