Commercial security is a bit different than residential security, especially if you’re a landlord. You’ll need to take specific, actionable measures to protect your properties from criminal elements. Here are just a few tips for getting started.
1. Upgrade Your Doors
It might sound simple, but according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, more than 50 percent of burglars enter through the front or back door. If you have flimsy doors that would splinter under the force of one good kick, it’s time to replace them with something made of durable hardwood.
2. Install Surveillance Cameras
Surveillance cameras serve two purposes. For one, they can provide video evidence of burglars, vandals and other criminals. Even more importantly, they can deter those criminals from seeing your building as an easy target in the first place.
3. Consider Smart Technology
“Smart” technology uses wireless signals to control lights, locks and other home features from the comfort of your smartphone. It can be a valuable investment with the right kind of building, so you might want to look into your options and see if it’ll meet your own needs as a landlord.
4. Let There Be Light
Bright lights are another way to signal to the world that your property is being taken care of, so don’t cut corners when it comes to outdoor security lighting. Make sure that you’re arranging them to avoid blind spots, too.
5. Fortify Your Windows
Reinforced glass can prevent breaks. Anti-theft bars and screens can deter burglars. Window sensors can set off alarms if anything is shattered. There are many ways to upgrade your windows, so don’t let them become easy access points into your building.
6. Educate Your Residents
A staggering number of people still use fake rocks to hide their spare keys. You might want to pass out home safety pamphlets to your residents that warn them of common mistakes and provide tips, tricks and techniques to prevent burglary.
7. Hire Security Guards
You don’t need them in your lobby 24/7. Just ask them to patrol the perimeter a few times per night and scare off loiters and other undesirables. Eventually, their presence alone will be enough to make criminals think twice.
8. Install Fire Alarms
Thieves aren’t the only thing that you have to worry about as a landlord. According to the National Fire Protection Association, there are almost 100,000 fires in apartment structures per year, and they cause an estimated $711 million in damage. Install fire alarms in your building to keep an inferno from ruining everything.
9. Know Your Danger Zones
Where are the most crimes occurring? Is it your parking lot, laundry room, utility room, front lobby or first floor apartments? Focus the bulk of your attention where it’s needed the most.
10. Invest in an Alarm System
Last but certainly not least, if you want the very best protection for your property, install a professional alarm system. It will allow you to track, monitor and record everything that happens around your building and grounds, so you’ll never be caught unaware by criminal elements.
These are just a few tips for commercial security. Whether you’re a first-time landlord or an old hand at managing properties, it’s important to protect your investments at all costs. Good luck!