If you own an apartment building, access control and security should be among your top priorities. Managing a building with numerous tenants means there are people constantly going in and out of your property. Having an access control system with electronic entry solutions is essential for keeping your tenants safe.
In this article, we’ll explore how features like video surveillance systems, advanced alarms, and electronic access control can enhance safety and security at your property.
Why Should You Improve Your Apartment Security System?
If your multifamily building is secured with nothing more than a front door lock, you might want to consider adding more safety features. According to a 2024 survey from the National Apartment Association (NAH), 71% of renters think that their property manager should be doing more to create a more secure environment. Additionally, 60% of respondents reported that they do not feel safe in their apartment complex.
Not only does having a security system make your tenants feel more secure, but it can also lower your insurance premiums. Features like video surveillance, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems can all help lower your rates.
With that in mind, let’s examine the top security features you should consider for your multi-family residential community.
Apartment Gate Security Entry Management Systems
For some apartment complexes, access control starts before you even enter a property. In gated apartment communities, access points such as parking lot entrances, garages, and fences require residents and guests to use a badge or mobile credentials to enter.
Not only does this make apartment buildings more secure, but it also ensures residents feel safer in outdoor areas, parking ramps, and other shared spaces.
Door Access Control Systems
Similar to gate security measures, a door access control system in an apartment complex is designed to prevent unauthorized people from entering a building.
Employing a system with ID badges, biometric access, or mobile credentials provides even greater security. These methods allow you to control building access without physical keys, avoiding the issues you may encounter with lost or stolen apartment keys.
Systems such as VIDIX Control allow you to electronically manage who can access:
- Buildings
- Specific rooms
- Parking facilities
- Mail rooms
- Package Delivery Areas
- Amenities like gyms and pools
It’s also easy for apartment managers to grant role-based access to specific individuals. For example, mail carriers and delivery drivers can be given access to certain areas of an apartment complex to make deliveries.
Did you know? You don’t need to install new doors to adopt a keyless entry system. Wireless locks are a great way to utilize doors where traditional wiring methods might be costly or difficult to install.
Visitor Management Systems and Video Intercoms
Digital check-in systems are instrumental in tracking guests and controlling their access. Residents and office staff can pre-register guests, streamlining the process when visitors arrive. To manage security concerns, you can also create internal watch lists to prevent unwanted visitors from entering a property.
It’s common for apartment complexes to have intercom systems for residents to verify deliveries and visitors. However, a video intercom system adds another layer of security, letting residents or apartment office staff visually identify guests.
Video Surveillance
In addition to video intercoms, a security camera system is one of the best ways to improve safety at your building. For a comprehensive approach, consider installing high-resolution cameras in:
- Entryways
- Hallways
- Parking lots
- Elevators
- Mail rooms
- Other shared spaces
Not only do security cameras record suspicious activity, but their presence alone can deter harassment and negative behavior. From a liability perspective, cameras can also help building managers gather evidence that may be used in legal matters such as slip-and-fall incidents or package theft.
Standard security cameras can enhance your building’s security, but AI-powered cameras offer even more robust features. For example, you can use VIDIX’s advanced security camera systems to search footage for specific attributes, such as locating a person with a particular outfit. With AI tracking capabilities, you can detect when a person entered a building, where they went, and determine if they left.
Advanced Alerts and Alarms
Building codes typically require fire alarms and sprinkler systems, but those features are the bare minimum when it comes to protecting your residents. VIDIX has comprehensive alert and alarm systems that offer:
- Intrusion detection
- Real-time emergency notifications
- Door alarms
- Lockdown activations
- Vandalism detection
- Centralized monitoring
Mass Notifications
In the event your apartment building does have a fire or other emergency, VIDIX Control allows you to issue mass notifications so residents can react quickly. In addition to notifications, you can also equip audio alerts, color-coded lighting, and emergency signage to help tenants respond safely.
Improve Security and Reduce Incidents with VIDIX
Installing advanced security features is beneficial for you and your tenants. Not only does it attract higher-quality renters, but having a robust security system can boost your property’s reputation.
With an integrated security system, you can reduce unauthorized access and deter criminal activity in mail rooms, gyms, hallways, parking lots, and other common areas, making residents feel safer.
Interested in VIDIX security systems for your multi-family building? Contact our security experts for a consultation or product demo. We’re here to help with any questions you may have so you can find the best electronic access control and security system for your building.
