Property managers have their hands full, especially when it comes to establishing successful security systems on their properties. There are many pieces to the puzzle that come together in order for a property to protect itself properly.
So what are the crucial elements property managers examine when building a great security system? For a free consultation that highlights your property’s unique vulnerabilities and solutions to address these concerns, contact Elite’s experienced security consultants by clicking here.
Below are five great approaches property managers take when it comes time to secure their buildings properly:
1. Determine Your Property’s Security Needs
Every property is different and therefore requires different security solutions. Typically, these systems are a combination of different types of security methods and tools, such as cameras, human security guards, and access control.
It’s important to consider who the tenants are and where they are when considering various options to meet their needs.
- Do the building’s tenants expect a high level of security in place?
- What are their general expectations?
For example, luxury buildings in a busy downtown area may have multiple high-security methods in place such as desk guards, secured access points, and cameras. On the other hand, a building in more rural areas may not need to have such extensive security solutions integrated on site to be successful.
Considering the geographical location of a property is an essential step for property managers when deciding on the best solution.
2. Secure All Bases
It is crucial to build a security system that protects the property in multiple ways, instead of focusing on just one issue. Additionally, the system should utilize different methods and not rely too much on one component or tool to solve all of the property’s security issues.
A building will normally need to protect against various threats and require a strategic approach to create a holistic solution. For example, while it is important to vet visitors to the property and avoid potential theft or violence, internal theft can also be a concern at offices or retail outlets.
On the other hand, residents and tenants of the property shouldn’t feel like they’re living under military rule and be able to live comfortably within the space.
To accomplish this, property managers can use different types of security solutions such as remote guarding systems, access control tools, and human security professionals on site to make important decisions about the system’s functionality.
3. Plan for the Unknown
After a security system has been chosen and installed, it is important to plan for any unexpected issues that may come up. Ideally, your security providers will do a thorough consultation and risk assessment, customized to the unique needs of your facility. This step can ensure the new system will integrate well into the rest of the building’s systems.
Security technology is changing constantly, and there’s a high likelihood that property managers or even on-site security managers may be unfamiliar with some innovations. Make sure building staff are trained properly and feel comfortable using the new security system once it is ready to go.
4. Understand Your Total Security Costs
A property’s security system should protect against various kinds of criminal activity which lead to costs for property managers. Theft, vandalism, and violence are just a few ways costs can add up when security isn’t doing its job. Property managers also need to balance their needs for quality with security systems that make financial sense to install.
For example, it doesn’t make sense to spend money on hundreds of surveillance cameras when only a handful will do the job just as well. Contact a skilled security company that can help design an effective and efficient solution for property managers looking for additional design expertise. Make sure to use a consultant that is not incentivized to sell you a bunch of equipment. Their focus should be on creating the most effective and efficient system possible based on your property’s unique needs and vulnerabilities.
5. Make a Smart Investment
A great security system will also double as a smart investment in the long run. Innovative security technology and solutions can increase the marketability of a building and become the deciding factor for potential tenants considering other options. Tools such as access control can even connect with other building systems to use utilities such as air conditioning more efficiently, helping save money on utility costs.
However, it’s critical to never sacrifice a security systems effectiveness to improve ROI. Providing the safest environment possible should be the top priority for all property and building managers.