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Amenities can be hit or miss for residents of multifamily properties. A pet-friendly environment that delights a dog or cat lover might raise another tenant’s hackles. But if there’s one thing every prospective renter wants, it’s strong security.
Remote Control
Keys, PINs and key cards are still the most common choices for multifamily managers, but newer access systems are app-controlled and AI-powered with video devices and biometrics.
These cloud-based systems allow property managers to control doors or gates remotely, programming who can and can’t enter. The technology can be customized and remain secure. For example, a tenant can give access to a housekeeper for certain hours during the week, says Pepe Gutierrez,CPM, a property manager with Megafincas Alicante S.L. in El Campello, Spain.
Many U.S. property managers are on board. “Inland Residential is configuring intercoms and access control systems to update automatically based on the rent roll,” says Chase Teschendorf, assistant vice president and director of systems and implementation at Inland Residential Real Estate Services LLC in Oak Brook, Ill.
Cloud-based systems also allow for better retention management, Teschendorf adds. “When an incident occurs, [the system] can easily retain mass amounts of footage with only a few clicks.”
Do Your Due Diligence
When planning for a new access control system:
- Confirm the technology has no legal restrictions in your area.
- Consider long-term tech plans and budget.
- Review the system’s track record.
- Ensure the system is compatible with existing building systems and technology.
- Pilot the system in one or two locations to see if it works and is a good fit.
Adapted from “Safe and Sound,” published in the September-October 2023 edition of the Journal of Property Management.