As the owner or manager of a multifamily property, ensuring the safety and security of your residents should be a top priority. With the increasing number of security risks, it is crucial to be proactive in implementing measures to protect your apartment community. In this article, we will explore the common security risks faced by multifamily properties and provide effective strategies to mitigate them. By prioritizing security, you can create a safe and secure environment for your residents and enhance the overall appeal of your property. In turn, the profitability of your multifamily properties is also boosted.
Common Security Risks in Multifamily Properties
Multifamily properties face a variety of security risks that can jeopardize the safety and well-being of residents, including:
Unauthorized Access to the Property
One common risk is unauthorized access to the property. Without proper access control measures in place, anyone can enter the premises, posing a threat to the residents and their belongings. A lack of access control poses the risk of theft, vandalism, and even more serious crimes.
Applying access control to entry gates, buildings, and common areas shields multifamily properties and their residents and staff from unwanted or threatening behavior. However, dedicated criminals can bypass access control by “tailgating,” or following behind an authorized person to enter a secured premises.
Proximity of Homes and Valuables
Apartment communities are susceptible to theft and vandalism. The close proximity of units and shared common areas make it easier for criminals to target multiple units in a short period of time.
Common Areas and Amenities
The amenities of multifamily properties can be a selling point for residents but can also present additional security concerns. Community gyms can house expensive workout equipment that is at risk of being damaged or stolen when left unmonitored.
Pools within multifamily properties can pose both security and safety concerns as well as liability risks for community owners and managers. While managers should be concerned with the misuse of the shared pool by both residents and unauthorized people, there is also the dangerous risk of drowning if there is not a lifeguard on duty.
Other common areas, like dog parks, conference rooms, and lounges are also at risk for misuse and vandalism by both residents and unauthorized individuals who gain access to the property.
Parking Lots and Garages
Parking lots and garages can pose significant risks to residents of your residential community. Often dimly lit and covering large areas, parking areas are popular targets for theft and other dangerous behavior that can jeopardize your residents’ safety and satisfaction.
Unsecured Mail and Packages
Package rooms can be an appealing amenity for residents but can also be a source of frustration if they are not properly secured and monitored. If packages are not stored in lockers, it is easy for other residents or even nonresidents to steal packages carrying important or valuable items.
If your apartment community does not have a package room, their packages can be extra vulnerable if left unattended on their doorsteps. Porch pirates are notorious for stealing packages off of doorsteps and often get away with repeat offenses.
Absence of Community Engagement
Furthermore, the absence of a strong community engagement can lead to a lack of vigilance among residents, making it easier for criminals to operate unnoticed.
Lack of Video Surveillance
Multifamily properties that are not equipped with video surveillance equipment are at a higher risk of theft and other unwanted behavior from both residents and nonresidents. Video surveillance, paired with remote video monitoring, can prevent unwanted activity from occurring and stop it in its tracks.
Understanding the Importance of Security in Apartment Communities
Security is a fundamental aspect of apartment living. When residents feel safe in their homes, they are more likely to stay long-term, resulting in lower turnover rates. Additionally, a secure environment enhances the overall quality of life and promotes a sense of community among residents. By investing in security measures, property owners can attract potential tenants who prioritize safety and create a positive reputation for their multifamily property.
Mitigating Security Risks Through Physical Measures
Implementing physical measures is an essential step in mitigating security risks in multifamily properties. One effective strategy is to install secure access control systems. These systems can range from key cards to biometric scanners, ensuring that only authorized individuals can enter the property and its facilities. By restricting access, you can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized entry and potential criminal activity.
However, there is still a risk of tailgating or piggybacking to bypass physical access control. By utilizing video surveillance and remote video monitoring, you can prevent breaches of your premises.
Additionally, installing surveillance cameras in common areas and strategic locations can act as a deterrent and aid in identifying any suspicious behavior. This not only enhances the security of the property but also provides peace of mind to the residents.
Enhancing Security Through Technology: Remote Video Monitoring
In today’s digital age, remote video monitoring has become an invaluable tool in protecting multifamily properties. With remote video monitoring, trained security professionals can monitor livestreams and recorded video footage and react to security breaches or unwanted activity as they occur. Most importantly, remote video monitoring seeks to prevent crime and other unwanted activity from occurring in the first place.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technologies
Artificial intelligence and other advanced video analytics can be applied to security cameras throughout the property to proactively detect abnormal activity or movement. This sends an alarm into a Security Operations Center where Virtual Agents review live and recorded video footage before determining what action to take.
Proactive Virtual Patrols
If your multifamily property does not utilize AI, remote video monitoring companies can conduct proactive virtual patrols of the entire property. Similar to foot patrols conducted by physical Security Officers, virtual patrols use live streams of strategically placed security cameras to scan a property for abnormal or illegal activity.
Two-Way Audio
By installing two-way audio speakers throughout your multifamily community, trained security professionals can interact directly with individuals participating in unwanted or illegal activity. If the Security Operations Center is alerted to suspicious activity, a Virtual Guard can deliver a customized audio announcement to confront and deter the behavior.
Incident Investigation
Remote video monitoring also provides the ability to record and store video footage, which can be crucial in investigating incidents and providing evidence if necessary.
By leveraging this technology, property owners can enhance the overall security of their multifamily property and ensure the safety and well-being of their residents.
Implementing Access Control Systems in Multifamily Housing
One of the most effective ways to enhance security in multifamily properties is by implementing access control systems. These systems provide a secure and convenient way to manage access to the property and its amenities. Key cards or fobs can be issued to residents, granting them authorized entry. This not only prevents unauthorized individuals from entering the property but also allows property owners to track and monitor access, providing an added layer of security.
Furthermore, access control systems can be integrated with other security measures, such as surveillance cameras and alarm systems. To prevent tailgating, Virtual Guards can monitor entry and exit points through security cameras to more closely monitor unauthorized individuals entering a restricted area. Additionally, if a resident is holding the door or propping open a door to bypass the access control measures, the Security Operations Center can report the incident to the property managers or owners so that they can take further action.
This integration enables a comprehensive approach to security, ensuring that any potential security breach is detected and addressed promptly.
Creating a Safe and Secure Environment Through Community Engagement
Community engagement plays a vital role in creating a safe and secure environment in multifamily properties. By fostering a sense of community among residents, you can encourage vigilance and cooperation in identifying and reporting suspicious activities. Organizing regular community events and establishing neighborhood watch programs can promote interaction among residents and help build a strong network of support.
Additionally, providing residents with resources and information on security measures and protocols can empower them to actively participate in maintaining the security of the property. By involving residents in the security process, you create a collaborative effort that strengthens the overall security of the multifamily property.
Unique “See Something, Say Something” tip lines can be created for your apartment community and distributed to residents. By involving residents in security protocols, your multifamily property encourages residents to report activity that may seem odd or suspicious but does not warrant a call to 911. This allows the activity to be investigated by Virtual Guards without escalating an incident if it is not necessary.
Training Staff and Residents on Security Protocols
Effective security measures require proper training and education for both staff and residents. Residential management should provide comprehensive training on security protocols, emergency procedures, and the use of security equipment. This ensures that everyone is equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively to any security threat or emergency situation.
Regularly conducting drills and simulations can further reinforce the importance of security and familiarize residents and staff with the necessary actions to take in various scenarios. By investing in training and education, you can empower your team and residents to be proactive in maintaining a secure environment.
When working with a remote video monitoring provider, it is essential for owners and managers to encourage communication between staff, residents, and the Security Operations Center. This increases the efficiency of the security measures and makes residents and staff feel safer knowing that there is a watchful eye protecting them and the premises.
The Role of Security Companies in Protecting Multifamily Properties
Security companies play a crucial role in protecting multifamily properties. They have the expertise and resources to implement and manage comprehensive security solutions tailored to the unique needs of the property. Security companies can provide trained security personnel who can patrol the premises, monitor surveillance systems, and respond to any security incidents.
Additionally, security companies can offer additional services such as background checks for potential residents, which can further enhance the overall security of the community. Partnering with a reputable security company like BOS Security, Inc. can provide property owners with peace of mind that their multifamily housing is in capable hands.
VirtuGuard™ Remote Video Monitoring
BOS Security, Inc. offers a remote video monitoring solution for multifamily properties, VirtuGuard™. Headquartered in Athens, Georgia, VirtuGuard™ provides high quality security services to clients across the United States, protecting a wide range of businesses including commercial businesses, residential communities, private parking areas, and much more.
VirtuGuard™ is more affordable and effective than traditional security measures and can be fully customized to your property and your security needs.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Security in Multifamily Properties
In conclusion, protecting your multifamily property from security risks should be a top priority. By understanding the common security risks faced by apartment communities and implementing effective strategies to mitigate them, you can create a safe and secure environment for your residents. Through physical measures, technology, community engagement, and proper training, you can diminish security risks and promote a sense of safety and well-being. Remember, prioritizing security not only protects your residents but also enhances the overall appeal and reputation of your multifamily property.
To learn more about VirtuGuard™ remote video monitoring for your multifamily property, complete the contact form below and check out some of our most frequently asked questions.