Residents of community associations expect to be safe in their homes. Whether they live in apartments, condos, townhomes, or single-family homes makes no difference. Everyone deserves the security of a safe place to live.
It is up to the community association Board to provide that security for its residents. But improving security in your community association involves more than installing a camera or adding a gate. Security is a proactive strategy that should be carefully planned, regularly reviewed, and updated.
Here are the top ways your community association can improve its security.
How Increased Security Can Benefit Community Associations
A secure community is more than one that doesn’t have crime or fear. Security can also provide numerous long-term benefits for the association and its residents. These include the following.
- Protecting property values.
- Reducing liability risks.
- Improving resident confidence and satisfaction.
- Encouraging community engagement.
- Supporting long-term financial strategy.
By investing in your community’s security, you will enjoy long-term benefits and stability.
Tips and Tricks for Increasing Security
Security is essential to the overall well-being of your community association. If you are worried about your community’s current level of security, these tips and tricks are for you.
1) Conduct a community security assessment.
The first step in increasing your community’s security is to identify its current vulnerabilities. A professional security assessment can help you discover this information. It will evaluate the following.
- Lighting in parking lots and walkways.
- Entry points and perimeter access.
- Surveillance coverage.
- Landscaping that may obstruct visibility.
- Emergency response procedures.
2) Upgrade lighting in common areas.
Many communities could easily improve security by upgrading lighting in common areas. Installing proper lighting is cost-effective and efficient. Well-lit spaces will deter criminal activity.
When upgrading lighting, focus on the following common areas in this order.
- Parking lots and garages.
- Sidewalks.
- Clubhouses and amenities.
- Mailbox customers.
- Building entrances.
Installing LED lights can also save your association money over time, as LEDs significantly reduce energy costs.
3) Install and maintain surveillance systems.
While more expensive, a surveillance system can be essential as both a crime deterrent and an investigative tool in the event of an incident. You may need to place multiple surveillance systems throughout your community, depending on its size. Always follow best practices, which include:
- Placing cameras at entrances and high-traffic areas.
- Ensuring proper signage notifying residents and visitors of the camera’s presence.
- Maintaining equipment regularly.
- Establishing clear policies for who has access to the community.
Consider professional installation of your surveillance systems to ensure proper placement and integration with a central monitoring location.
4) Partner with Community Property Management.
A reputable professional community association management company, such as Community Property Management (CPM), can assess your security and provide recommendations. Let our expert team walk you through the entire security upgrading process, from assessment to installation.
Contact CPM to learn how we can help your Board create a safer, more secure community today!