Apartment Garage Security: 5 Ways to Protect Your Garage at a Multifamily Property

Apartment garages face unique security challenges. That’s why it’s important to have a customized security plan to tackle them effectively. Here’s your guide to the most common threats to multi-family property garages, and how to prevent them with security measures.

As an property manager, making sure your residents feel safe and secure is a top priority, especially in shared spaces like garages.

A garage is an important part of any multifamily property, but it often faces its own security challenges. It’s crucial to have a garage security system in place to keep this area safe and protect your property effectively.

FREE DOWNLOAD: The Ultimate Guide to Multi-Family Security for Property Managers & Owners

Apartment parking garages face unique threats compared to other areas of the property.

Here are some of the threats that apartment garages often face:

1. Vehicle theft and vandalismTitle

If a car is stolen or vandalized, the immediate impacts can include financial strain from repair costs, increased insurance premiums, and potential loss of income if you rely on your vehicle for work. Additionally, it may take time to replace a vehicle, disrupting your routine and mobility.

Vehicle theft is becoming more common. According to the FBI’s property crime statistics, although general property crime reports fell by 2.4% in 2023, motor vehicle theft rates rose by 12.6%.

2. BurglaryTitle

Garages often serve as storage spaces for valuable items such as tools, sports equipment, and seasonal decorations. A break-in can result in the loss of these items, leading to significant financial setbacks and the hassle of replacing stolen property.

3. Unauthorized accessTitle

Shared garages are vulnerable to unauthorized access by strangers who can slip in unnoticed. Once inside, these unauthorized individuals might engage in activities ranging from vandalism to potential threats to personal safety.

4. Resident theftTitle

Maintenance personnel or residents can take advantage of their access to the garage, leading to theft or vandalism.

Here are 5 strategies to improve shared garage security in multifamily properties.

1. Control who can enter and exit by installing enhanced access control systems.

One of the most effective ways to secure a shared garage is by controlling who can enter and exit. Implementing robust access control systems can significantly reduce unauthorized access and give you peace of mind. Here are two forms of access control systems to consider.

Keycard systemsTitle

Keycard systems provide a secure way to grant access, ensuring that only authorized individuals can enter the garage. This system can also log entries and exits, allowing you to monitor who accessed the garage and when.

Biometric scannersTitle

For an added layer of security, consider installing biometric scanners and locks. These systems use fingerprint or retina scans to grant access, making it nearly impossible for unauthorized individuals to enter. The level of personalization and security offered by biometric scanners can provide immense peace of mind.

2. Monitor your apartment garage with high-quality surveillance cameras.

Security cameras act as both a deterrent and a crucial tool for identifying perpetrators in the event that a crime takes place. The presence of cameras can also make suspicious individuals think twice before attempting to break in. Here are some tips on how to choose and use your cameras to effectively prevent crime in your garage.

The higher your camera’s resolution, the more effective at capturing footage.Title

High-resolution cameras are essential for capturing clear images, especially in low-light conditions. Cameras with infrared capabilities can provide clear footage at night, ensuring that your garage is monitored around the clock.

Choose a camera with remote monitoring capabilities.Title

Opt for a system that allows remote access to footage. This enables you or a security team to monitor the garage in real time from any location. The ability to check in on your garage at any time can provide invaluable peace of mind.

Make sure you strategically position your surveillance cameras.Title

The effectiveness of surveillance cameras largely depends on their placement. Install cameras at all entry and exit points, as well as in areas where valuables are stored. Ensure that no blind spots exist, and consider using cameras with a wide field of view to cover as much area as possible.

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3. Advanced alarm systems can help deter immediate threats.

Alarms are vital for deterring potential intruders and alerting residents or security personnel to a break-in. The sound of an alarm can scare off intruders and alert neighbors to the threat. Here are some alarm system features that help protect garages.

Motion sensorsTitle

Motion activated sensors trigger alarms when movement is detected in restricted areas. These sensors should be sensitive enough to detect human movement but not so sensitive that they trigger false alarms from pets or other non-threatening sources.

Glass break sensorsTitle

If your garage has windows, install glass break sensors. These sensors detect the sound frequency of breaking glass and trigger an alarm immediately. This immediate response can thwart burglary attempts and prevent further damage.

Silent alarmsTitle

Consider installing silent alarms that alert security personnel or law enforcement without alerting the intruder. This can increase the chances of apprehending the intruder while they are still on the premises.

4. Physical barriers and locking mechanisms provide tangible deterrents.

Physical security measures should be your first line of defense against unauthorized access and theft. These measures can make it significantly more difficult for intruders to gain entry.

High-security locksTitle

Use high-security locks on all garage doors and storage units. These locks should be resistant to picking, drilling, and cutting. Consider using locks that require a key for both entry and exit to prevent intruders from easily escaping.

Reinforced doorsTitle

Ensure that garage doors are made from sturdy materials and are resistant to forced entry. Consider doors with reinforced frames and multi-point locking systems. These doors can withstand significant force, making it much harder for intruders to break in.

Security gatesTitle

Install security gates or barriers inside the garage to section off areas where high-value items are stored. These gates can prevent thieves from accessing certain parts of the garage even if they manage to enter. The sight of an additional barrier can deter intruders from attempting to break in.

5. AI-powered live video monitoring offers an advanced level of protection for apartment garages.

While traditional security measures are essential, integrating AI-powered live video monitoring can take your garage security to the next level. Systems like Deep Sentinel offer unparalleled protection through real-time threat detection and response.

Here’s how multi-family residential live video surveillance provides a unique level of protection for apartment garages.

Real-time monitoringTitle

AI-powered systems continuously monitor video feeds, identifying suspicious activities as they happen, whenever they happen. This real-time analysis allows for immediate intervention, ensuring that threats are addressed before they can escalate.

Smart alerts (and no false alarms)Title

These systems can differentiate between harmless activities and genuine threats, reducing false alarms. Smart alerts can notify you or security personnel of potential issues, enabling quick action. The precision of AI in identifying real threats can save time and resources.

Proactive deterrenceTitle

AI-powered systems like Deep Sentinel can interact with intruders through speakers, warning them that they are being watched and that authorities have been alerted. This proactive approach can deter criminals before they can cause damage. The psychological impact of knowing they are being monitored can be enough to make intruders abandon their plans.

24/7 surveillanceTitle

Unlike human monitors who need breaks, AI-powered systems provide constant surveillance, ensuring your garage is protected around the clock. The tireless vigilance of AI systems means that no threat goes unnoticed, no matter the time of day or night.

Comprehensive data analyticsTitle

AI-powered systems can provide valuable insights into security patterns, helping you identify vulnerabilities and improve overall security strategies. Understanding trends in security breaches can help you refine your security measures and stay one step ahead of potential threats.

Level up your shared garage security with Deep Sentinel.

Investing in a Deep Sentinel multi-family residential security solution ensures you’ll receive the most effective apartment garage security on the market. The AI-powered cameras and live video surveillance guards proactively monitor your perimeter, doors, and common areas.

You’ll enjoy zero false alarms, verified crime-in-progress calls to authorities, and real-time engagement, giving you a comprehensive security solution that deters crime before it happens. Perhaps, best of all, you’ll rest easier at night knowing your security is ensured with the human touch of real professional guards.

Learn more about Deep Sentinel’s live video surveillance systems for garages here, or call 1-833-434-0852 for a free quote.