And for owners of multi-family buildings, it pays off to prioritize a secure environment for residents. Can we discuss security risks faced by multi-family properties and provide tips to reduce these threats?

Reassess Your Buildings’ Security Risks

Security risks are unique depending on the property type, the area where it is located, and even the time of the year. It’s not only important to stay up to date with news but police crime statistics, and historical data can be great tools to identify new property risks.

For example, if you’re concerned about security in Multi-Family Properties and the buildings are located in Chicago, you can use The Chicago Police Department Clear Map. The map allows you to to enter the property address and filter crime records by date and type. The results will then divide crimes into property or violent categories. Property crimes include: burglary, larceny/theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson. Once you identify and visualize the proximity of these crimes, it can help you decide which security measures are needed.

Lock your Doors and Windows

As a security expert, if we were ever going to stick with one recommendation that’s completely free, it would be: to develop a routine where you check all entry points to your property. We often repeat this because the most common points of entry for burglars are unlocked doors and windows.

If you find that there’s a breech in security, for example, tenants that leave the entrance door open or packages that are stolen, an access control system can help. An access control system can help you manage access and it’s a reliable solution to restrict multiple areas and buildings. Additionally, If units have sliding doors, provide a lock bar or rod to prevent these from being open.

Monitor and Update your Camera System

Many of our condominium and building clients opt to have cameras in each entrance. If you have a camera system, make it a habit to review footage everyday (or at least every other day) at a similar time. Regularly reviewing footage helps you spot unusual activity before it becomes a problem.

Additionally, scheduling maintenance checks every six months ensures your cameras are in top condition. Regular maintenance extends the life of your system and enhances the overall security in your multi-family property.

Improve Outdoor Lighting

Lights for multi-family properties can be both aesthetically appealing and help step up that feeling of being welcomed and safe. Well-lit entrances, walkways, parking lots, and garages discourage crime and help residents feel safe.

LED lights are a good option for parking lots because they use less electricity, provide uniform light, and produce less heat. Some additional features include auto turn on and off depending on the time of the day.

Remember to ask residents to report if any lights are not working and replace them in a timely manner. Taking prompt action demonstrates that you’re committed to providing a safe building.

Protect your Valuables

To protect valuable items, keep them out of sight from outside windows and doors where they might attract burglars. If package theft has been reported in the area, consider restricting access to the mailroom with smart locks or access control.

Ask building residents to avoid leaving expensive items, devices, and equipment in plain view. If possible, require that renters purchase insurance and keep a detailed list of items that could be claimed if there’s an incident.

Engage with Residents to Improve Security

A strong security culture starts with informed residents. Regularly engaging with residents through meetings, newsletters, and social media makes them active participants in keeping the property safe.

Additionally, owners should encourage residents to report crimes to the property manager immediately after making a police report. This allows management to keep track of incidents and to take additional action if needed.

When you provide a fast and secure way of communication, you’ll build trust for better resolutions and less crime.

By adopting these habits, property owners and residents can work together to create a secure and welcoming environment. Remember, proactive security measures not only protect your property but also enhance the quality of life for everyone who calls it home.

The post 6 Habits that Enhance Security in Multi-Family Properties appeared first on VinTech Systems.

In our November blog, we discussed how a security system provided same-day results in one of the largest homes in Illinois. The property had been trespassed and vandalized. The owner decided to install a security camera system after paying a high cost for repairs. The first day the cameras and sensors were installed, our client received fifteen notifications. Fortunately, the alarms scared the trespassers away.

Most recently, a client experienced a more serious crime. A murder took place near his property and the suspect was seen running into his condo building. A few weeks prior to this incident, the building experienced a power outage. The power outage caused the security system to malfunction. However, there was little priority given to the security system due to property management changes.

A security system is reliable evidence when it works well. It is when an incident occurs that you need will need it most. You can’t get a rain check on that!

Prevention is key. These are the top five reasons to give maintenance to your equipment:

1. Reliability. Maintenance assures the equipment continues to work properly.

2. The cameras are capturing motion 24/7 and the DVR is recording 365 days a year. Even if the equipment is high quality, it needs a refresh.

3. The equipment deals with environmental stress. Outdoor cameras are outside during storms, snow, and freezing temperatures. They need to be checked and cleaned to prevent damage.

4. Heavy winds can occasionally shift the camera’s focus. therefore its not a good idea to have the camera lenses focused on the floor right?

5. The cost of the equipment. Maintenance will extend the life of the equipment. Protect your investment.

What happens during a maintenance service?

A service technician will adjust the cameras to a proper angle. They will also check for signs of equipment deterioration and the condition of the system’s cable connections. Furthermore, they will update the software to make sure it continues to work properly. Take this opportunity to ask questions. And if you haven’t yet, its recommended to ask about the cost of a maintenance plan.

Whether you have a maintenance service or not, always call your security service provider if the system is not working properly. Additionally, we recommend contacting your security company to update your account if changes are made.

The post Protect Your Security System-Maintenance is Important! appeared first on VinTech Systems.