A high-rise is a tall building Superman can leap over in a single bound. But how tall is that? Well, it depends on where you live. In the US, anything above seven stories is considered a high-rise. In India, it’s any building with four stories or more. In Germany, any building with more than 12 floors is considered a high-rise. As you search for apartments, typically any building more than 75 feet tall might be called a high-rise.
Of course, if you are searching for a high-rise apartment in Manhattan, it might look different than a high-rise apartment in a smaller city (after all, a seven-story building in New York City might seem rather tiny since the average building in the city has 18 floors). In comparison, a skyscraper has 40 or more floors.
High-rise buildings date back to ancient Rome, when many buildings had more than 10 stories
— and over 200 stairs! Hopefully, if you are searching for high-rise apartments, yours will have
an elevator.
High-rise apartments are generally safe, but like any living environment, safety can depend on several factors, including building design, location, and management. Here’s a summary of the key considerations
Building Codes: High-rise buildings are constructed to rigorous safety standards and must comply with local building codes, including seismic resistance, fire safety, and wind-load standards
Regular Inspections: These buildings undergo frequent inspections to ensure structural integrity, including checks on elevators, plumbing, electrical systems, and the
foundation.
Fire Prevention Systems: Most high-rises are equipped with advanced fire safety systems, such as sprinklers, fire alarms, smoke detectors, and fire-resistant materials.
Evacuation Routes: Fire exits and stairwells are designed to provide safe escape routes in the event of a fire or emergency, with clear signage.
Fire Suppression Systems: Sprinkler systems and emergency lighting are often integrated into the building’s design to manage fire-related risks.
24/7 Security Personnel: Many high-rise buildings have on-site security guards to monitor entrances, common areas, and the building perimeter.
Controlled Access: High-rises often feature keycard or biometric access to control who enters the building, limiting access to residents and authorized individuals.
Surveillance Systems: CCTV cameras in common areas, elevators, and hallways add an extra layer of security.
When considering a high-rise apartment, it’s important to evaluate the safety features that can ensure your well-being. Here’s a summary of the key safety features you should look for:
Ground Floor: Best for easy access, pets, and avoiding elevators, but consider privacy and security concerns.
Middle Floors: Ideal for a balance of privacy, access, and affordability, offering a quieter environment without the downsides of top-floor or ground-floor living.
Top Floors: Great for those who want stunning views, privacy, and less noise but can handle the higher cost and potential weather exposure.
Upper Middle Floors: The sweet spot between cost, view, and accessibility, offering some benefits of higher floors at a more affordable price.
