Comparing Popular Security Options for Apartment Buildings

In today’s world, ensuring the security of apartment residents is a top priority for property managers and owners. With safety concerns on the rise, investing in robust security is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. But what are the various security options for apartment buildings? Are some better for multi-family residences than others?

The Growing Need for Security in Apartment Complexes

The multi-family housing sector is booming. According to the National Multifamily Housing Council, over 47 million people live in apartment complexes in the United States.

Unfortunately, this housing density also makes these communities attractive targets for crime. Property crime rates are significantly higher in urban areas with high concentrations of apartments. The rate is twice as high as in suburban settings and THREE times higher than in rural locations.

The True Cost of Security Breaches

While the financial cost of property crimes is widely discussed, the broader economic impact often flies under the radar. According to the National Crime Victimization Survey, the indirect costs of a security breach—including lost productivity, increased insurance premiums, and diminished property values—can be up to 4-5 times the direct costs of theft and damage.

Don’t let it happen to you or your residents.

Multifamily Security and Resident Retention

Security measures play a crucial role in resident retention and satisfaction.

A survey by Allegion found that 48% of multi-family residents want a smart video doorbell, 40% want a smart electronic lock, and they are willing to pay a premium for them. In fact, 19% said the lack of a smart electronic lock was a dealbreaker for them when considering a new apartment complex. This highlights the importance of investing in robust security systems not just for safety, but also for maintaining occupancy levels.

Insurance Premium Discounts

Installing comprehensive security systems not only protects residents but can also lead to significant financial savings. Many insurance companies offer discounts on premiums for properties equipped with advanced security measures. These savings can offset your initial investment.

Technology has stepped up to the plate. A wave of innovative security options for apartment buildings is transforming how we protect residences.

Available Security Options for Apartment Buildings

When it comes to securing an apartment complex, several categories of security solutions are commonly employed:

1. Live Surveillance
2. CCTV Systems
3. Access Control Systems
4. Alarm Systems
5. Security Guards

Each of these options has its pros and cons. Let’s dig into these security options for apartment buildings to find what’s right for your complex.

Live Surveillance

Live video surveillance involves real-time monitoring of the premises by trained security personnel through advanced camera systems. Companies like Deep Sentinel offer cutting-edge technology where AI-enhanced security cameras at apartment complexes detect unusual activity and alert live guards. These guards then assess the situation, intervene, and even call the cops.

It’s important to note that live monitoring can be active or passive. You want the former.

Prominent Brands: Deep Sentinel, SimpliSafe, LiveWatch

Pros

• Fast response to suspicious activities
• Deterrent effect on potential criminals
• Possibility to intervene before a crime occurs
• Coordination with local law enforcement
• Generates forensic evidence

Cons

• Ongoing costs due to monitoring fees
• Potential privacy concerns require tenant education
• Some models require a reliable internet connection

Stats and Data

According to a study by MarketsandMarkets, the global video surveillance market will grow from $53.7 billion in 2023 to $83.3 billion by 2028, indicating a significant rise in adoption rates.

Deep Sentinel boasts an average police response time of 30 seconds or less, significantly faster than traditional multifamily security systems.

CCTV Systems

Closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems have long been a staple in apartment complexes. These systems involve installing cameras throughout the property to record footage that can be reviewed later if an incident occurs. Unlike the live surveillance option, there isn’t necessarily a person watching the camera feeds.

Prominent Brands: Hikvision, Swann, Lorex, Dahua

Pros

• Provides a record of events for investigations
• The visible presence of cameras can discourage potential criminals
• Many systems offer remote access
• Generally a lower-cost option after the upfront technology investment

Cons

• No real-time intervention
• Captures crime after it has happened
• Raises issues about resident privacy
• Does not actively prevent crime

Stats & Data

Research indicates that CCTV cameras can reduce crime by up to 13%, particularly in public spaces and large residential complexes. However, because some criminals will still attempt a break-in if they notice CCTV cameras, complementary security measures are essential.

Access Control Systems

Multi-family residential gate security and door security are familiar issues to any apartment dweller. Access control systems help by regulating who can enter the building and specific areas within the property. These systems can include key card or fob entry, biometric scanners, and intercom systems.

Prominent Brands: Honeywell, Kisi, Brivo, Salto Systems

Pros

• Prevents trespassing from non-residents
• Provides a log of entries and exits
• Can integrate with other security systems

Cons

• Can be expensive to install and maintain
• Potential technical issues and failures
• May be bypassed or hacked by determined intruders
• Lost or stolen credentials can be a hassle

Stats & Data

The global access control market is projected to reach $15.2 billion by 2029, driven by increasing security concerns in residential and commercial spaces. More than 90% of surveyed security personnel describe electronic access control systems as an explicit and pivotal part of their security plans.

Alarm Systems

Security systems for apartment complexes raise the alert when there’s a potential breach. These systems can include door and window sensors, motion detectors, and glass-break sensors.

Prominent Brands: ADT, Vivint, Frontpoint

Pros

• Depending on the service provider, the system may notify residents, management, monitoring agents, and/or police of security issues
• Can integrate with other systems
• Many systems offer remote arming/disarming and monitoring

Cons

• Very high rate of false alarms
• May not prevent the crime from occurring
• Requires regular testing and maintenance
• Typically only protects specific areas
• Requires someone to arm the system

Stats & Data

A property without a security alarm is 3x more likely to be robbed. According to the Electronic Security Association (ESA), 74% of uncompleted intrusions can be credited to alarm systems.

However, false alarms account for up to 98% of alarm activations, leading to unnecessary dispatches, wasted resources, and potential fines.

Security Guards

Hiring an apartment complex security guard to patrol and monitor the area is a traditional, yet often effective, protection method. Guards provide a physical presence and can respond to incidents in real time.

Prominent Brands: G4S, Allied Universal, Securitas

Pros

• Immediate physical response to incidents
• Deterrent to potential criminals
• Can assist residents in emergencies

Cons

• High cost due to salaries and benefits
• An apartment security guard is prone to human error
• Limited coverage

Stats & Data

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are over 1.1 million security guards employed in the U.S., highlighting the demand for this service. Studies suggest that visible security guards can reduce crime rates by up to 16%, similar to the impact of CCTV cameras.

Complementary Security Options for Apartments

Some security methods can (and should) accompany your primary systems. Reinforce your protection with these security strategies.

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is a strategy that uses architectural and landscape design to enhance security.

A recent study found that residences employing multiple-component CPTED principles saw a 30-84% reduction in crime rates compared to those that did not. This includes simple measures like improved lighting, clear sightlines, and strategic placement of landscaping. You can easily incorporate these strategies with other security options for apartment buildings.

The Power of Community Programs

Beyond physical and technological solutions, fostering a sense of community can significantly enhance security.

Apartment complexes with active neighborhood watch programs experience a 16-26% reduction in crime rates. Engaged residents are more likely to report suspicious activities and look out for one another, creating a safer environment.

The Verdict: Deep Sentinel as the Overall Winner

While each security system for apartment complex use has its strengths and weaknesses, Deep Sentinel emerges as the clear winner due to its innovative approach to live surveillance.

By combining proprietary AI technology with human intervention, Deep Sentinel offers a proactive security solution. It addresses many of the shortcomings of traditional systems. It’s an ideal multi-family residential security guard replacement because you still get the power of a live human guard—plus powerful AI technology.

Why Deep Sentinel?

• Proactive Response: Deep Sentinel’s AI algorithms can detect suspicious behavior before it escalates, ensuring timely intervention.
• Rapid Police Response: With an average response time of 30 seconds or less, Deep Sentinel outperforms other systems in getting law enforcement to the scene quickly
• Crime Verification: AI detects potential threats, and then humans assess the situation. This two-step process eliminates false alarms and only alerts the authorities about a verified crime in progress.
• Layered Security: Deep Sentinel can cooperate with other security options, such as access control solutions, in a comprehensive security plan.

Layering Apartment Security Solutions for Optimal Protection

Securing an apartment complex requires a multifaceted approach. While no single solution is foolproof, combining various security measures can significantly enhance overall safety.

Live surveillance—particularly with innovative solutions like Deep Sentinel—offers unparalleled real-time protection. Layering in other methods creates multifamily security systems that deter crime and ensure the safety of residents.

The best choice for your apartment complex will, of course, depend on your specific needs and budget. By carefully considering your options and investing in a multi-layered approach, you can create a safer community for your residents.

With a comprehensive security setup, apartment complex owners and managers can enjoy some peace of mind. And give residents peace of mind, too.