Strata living provides benefits of convenience, community, and shared responsibilities – but, it also presents unique security risks. In a strata property, there is a greater number of residents and common areas, amenities and facilities – all of them unique risks and a potential target for break-ins, vandalism and/or intrusions. However, with a proactive approach and smart upgrades, you can substantially improve the safety of your building. Here are 10 proven ways to increase your strata security:
1. Security Audit
First things first – hire an experienced security auditor to inspect your property. A security audit will identify current vulnerabilities (poor lighting, outdated locks, blind spots in surveillance). They will also provide you with a comprehensive report that will assist you in identifying next steps and give the owners’ corporation valid justification for any upgrades.
2. Entry Systems Upgrade
The first step in limiting access is to upgrade your entry systems. You can switch from traditional locks to keyless entry systems that use electronic fobs or smartphones, which will limit unauthorized entry but increasing tracking of who accesses the building, and will streamline access for residents and property managers.
3. CCTV Build / Upgrade
Modern day CCTV now includes high definition video footage, remote access via an app, and motion detection alerts (only if the CCTV is on and operational). It is important to ensure that any new or existing CCTV encompasses all entry points, car parks, lift access and shared areas, as well as acting as an obvious deterrent to prospective intruders.
4. Mail and Parcel Lock Up Areas
Theft from mail is a serious problem for strata buildings, and lockable mailboxes can certainly alleviate the problem. You may want to think about additional secure parcel delivery areas or securing smart lockers if you are worried about stolen packages.
5. Better Lighting in Common Areas
Lighting usually deters crime. The right lighting levels are important – common areas should be considered, particularly entry ways, pathways, car parks and stairwells and should utilise motion sensor, energy efficient LeD lighting.
6. Visitor Access
There needs to be visitor access control and monitoring, so consider intercom systems maybe with video capabilities so you can see who you are letting in. Also, try limiting visitation access to common facilities outside peak hours where possible.
7. Landscaping
If you’ve got some tall shrubs and trees, they can give intruders a place to hide. Keeping your yard neat and making sure paths and doors are easy to see helps keep things safe.
8. Educating Residents on Security Best Practices
Regularly hold informative meetings or newsletters to educate residents on security protocols – do not let strangers “tailgate” behind you into the building, report suspicious people, lock doors, lock vehicles, etc.
9. Provide Secure entry for Garages and Car Parks
Garages and underground car parks are one of the weakest and most vulnerable entry points to the property. Use roller shutters or boom gates operated with access controls. Consider installing a number plate recognition system at these gates to provide additional monitoring.
Conclusion
Strata security is not about one investment – it is the totality of strata security provisions that will be effective. If you can bring in newer technology, upgrade the physical infrastructure of the property, and educate your community, then strata properties can become safer locations for everyone. Investing in security is an investment into the protection of your asset and their residents, but also allows the effects to compound and holds the potential to increase the value of your building, which adds overall value when these potential buyers consider the building as part of their overall purchase.