When it comes to adding a new amenity or enhancing a component in your community, you want to ensure that the investment will be worthwhile. Whether it’s hosting resident events to increase community happiness, or adding an Uber waiting room to replace a lack of parking, every investment must have a distinct purpose. For strengthening security, CCTV Security systems are the best bang for your buck.
Property manager, Laura M., recalls an incident where a non-resident broke into one of the property’s laundry rooms to try to steal the machines’ quarters. The damages were significant, forcing the property to get new laundry machines. Since then, Laura M. states they have increased their security measures by more strictly enforcing laundry hours and installing camera security systems in key property areas. They haven’t had an incident since.
Although the obvious benefits of security camera systems are added surveillance and the availability of video evidence in the case of a theft or liability lawsuit, CCTV systems also ward off potential threats alone. As Larry Dolin, chief executive of American Security Systems said in the New York Times, “[security cameras] are a deterrent. People see a camera and signage, and they are less likely to do something if they know they are being recorded.”
If your community is looking to up their security by installing security cameras, you’ll need to keep a few things in mind.
- Camera Quality
Getting a low quality security camera is relatively easy and cost-efficient, but depending on where you’re going to place the camera and for what purpose, you might need to invest in a camera system with a higher resolution. For example, a low-end camera pointed at a main entrance or parking lot is (depending on the distance) unlikely to pick up on distinct facial features or license plate numbers. If your property has had a lot of theft in the past, upping the resolution might be necessary.
- Accessibility of Footage
While this might not be a major concern, you will need to consider how accessible the footage is to you and your team. Will you need to dedicate room in your leasing office for monitoring the security cameras, or will the footage be online? Who will have access to the footage, and what security systems (like pin numbers or passwords) are in place to protect footage accessibility?
- Hard Drive Size
Knowing how big the hard drive is extremely important as it shows how much footage can be stored. Making a plan on how to backup footage, and for how long, should also be considered.
- Installation
The installation is one of the most important factors when considering a camera security system for your community. Some camera systems can be installed easily by your own team, while others need a specific crew to install. The same goes for future upgrades. Don’t forget to place signage in visible areas to thwart intruders.
When it comes to investing in your staff with CIC™’s free FCRA certification, utilizing a tenant screening service to get better residents, or upgrading your security system with a CCTV security system, taking the time to research the benefits and purpose of the addition is vital. While adding security cameras can significantly increase your property’s security and attract applicants who factor safety into their decision, getting a system that is the right fit for your community is just as vital. Don’t forget to factor in the daylight time changes on your DVR as well!
Do you use video cameras in your community? Are there any enhancements you’re looking into? Let us know in the comment section below & be sure to subscribe!
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