Upgrading a Shared Mailbox Setup to a Secure Locking Mailbox in Bellingham
Why This Homeowner Wanted a Separate Mailbox Post
For this project, the homeowner’s mailbox was mounted on a shared post alongside a neighboring property. While shared mailbox posts are common, the existing setup had become unstable and unattractive over time.
The original mailbox structure was being held upright using a combination of cinder blocks and concrete around the base. Although it technically functioned, it lacked curb appeal and did not provide the kind of permanent, secure installation the property owner wanted.
The customer requested a completely separate mailbox post that would:
- Improve appearance
- Create a cleaner standalone installation
- Provide better long-term durability
- Support a secure locking mailbox
Because this property was also a rental home, security compliance became an important factor as well.
Locking Mailboxes Are Required for Rental Properties in Bellingham
In the City of Bellingham, rental properties are required to have locking mailboxes under BMC 6.15.050.
The ordinance was implemented to help reduce:
- Mail theft
- Identity theft
- Unauthorized access to tenant mail
For landlords and property managers, upgrading to a locking mailbox is not only a security improvement, it is also an important compliance requirement.
Removing the Old Shared Mailbox Setup
To create a new standalone installation, we first separated the customer’s mailbox from the shared mailbox post arrangement.
The installation area was located along asphalt, so we carefully removed a small section of the asphalt surface to create space for a proper mailbox foundation.
Installing a Secure Mailbox Post
Once the excavation was complete, we installed a new heavy-duty mailbox post and secured it with concrete to create a stable long-term foundation.
A properly installed mailbox post helps:
- Prevent leaning or movement
- Improve long-term durability
- Support heavier locking mailboxes
- Create a cleaner finished appearance
After the post was fully secured, we installed a new locking mailbox designed to provide improved mail security for the tenant.
Final Result
The final installation replaced an unstable shared mailbox arrangement with a clean, standalone locking mailbox system securely mounted in concrete.
The homeowner now has:
- A dedicated mailbox post
- Improved curb appeal
- A more durable installation
- A secure locking mailbox compliant with Bellingham rental property requirements
For property owners looking to upgrade aging or non-compliant mailbox setups, proper installation and secure mounting make a major difference in both appearance and long-term performance.