Published Aug 29, 2024

Modern Access Control for Multifamily Properties

Multifamily smart home devices displayed throughout a home

The main purpose of access control is to provide a secure environment. Access control systems regulate who can enter particular areas, buildings, or common areas. But it’s not just about keeping unauthorized people out; it’s also about managing and monitoring the flow of people and assets within these areas.

Multifamily smart home devices displayed throughout a home

Modern access control systems enable automated access to front gates, entrance doors, elevator call buttons, garages, and common areas amenities including the swimming pool area, clubhouse, laundry facility, and so much more. 

Devices like access panels give residents, guests, staff, and vendors a choice of how to enter the community — mobile phone, PIN code, card, or fob credentials. This provides flexibility while eliminating physical keys.

In cases where the guest or vendor does not have an entry code, they can use an intercom to communicate with residents or staff. A virtual intercom system is one that utilizes a cloud-based platform rather than a fixed piece of hardware. This enables residents to answer intercom calls from anywhere, even when they aren’t home, and remotely grant access to the guest or vendor.

These systems make it easy for on-site teams to monitor activity and manage everything remotely, providing flexibility and a safer community for all. In fact, modern community access control systems can also provide multifamily rental properties with many other values and benefits.

Let’s explore the benefits of modern access control systems.

Stronger Security

Access Panel With IntercomModern access control systems can prevent unauthorized access, security breaches, and even crimes like burglaries, vandalism, and package theft. This can make your communities safer and more comfortable for residents and visitors.

Some smart home systems have alarm management platforms that notify you or your residents of breaches, allowing you to monitor access remotely.

With modern cloud-based access control devices, you’ll be able to manage every entry door, gate, and elevator at your property, onsite or remotely.

Improved Access To Your Community During Emergencies

Locked gates, fences, or other barriers in an access control system can slow down first responders from reaching where help is most needed. First responders need the ability to override electronic gates for rapid access.

Modern access control systems rely on Gate & Key Switch installation options enabling first responders* to quickly open electrical gates, manual gates, and roll-up doors — all without delay, force, or damage during emergencies. No physical key required.

*It is critical to check if the specific mechanisms comply with your local regulations or codes.

Enhanced Resident Experiences

Modern access control systems power keyless entry options for your residents. Keyless entry is quick, convenient, and an economical way to simplify community management. Your maintenance staff no longer have to deal with issues like lost keys, locksmith visits, unit turnover key changes, and the hassle of keeping track of physical keys.

The modern keyless experience benefits the rental community by boosting property values and increasing operational efficiencies. That’s a win-win for residents, leasing staff, and maintenance teams.

Enhanced Visitor Management

With real-time activity logs and visitor photos, you can know who’s coming and going from your community and when. Access panels with built-in virtual intercom systems can help manage secure entry for guests and deliveries. Easily facilitate communication between your residents and their visitors, and give your residents the control to grant access right from their smartphones.

Reduced Costs

Modern access control systems can help communities reduce costs by eliminating the need for keys/rekeying for move-in/move-outs, and even security personnel, in some cases.

Scalability

Systems that rely on cloud-based platforms can be easily scaled to add or remove access points without major hardware installations. These access control systems can also easily integrate with your property management software, leasing automation software, and even some security systems, like video cameras, to provide even more protection.

Operational efficiency

Modern access control systems can streamline workflows and reduce human errors, which can help communities run more smoothly and efficiently. Leasing staff and maintenance teams no longer need to be “always on/available” to manage community access, rekey units, issue keys, and more. Leasing staff also have the flexibility to work remotely, reducing wasted travel time.

Access Activity / Data Insights

Modern access control systems can provide user-level access control and keep a log of every entry, which traditional keys can’t do. Audit trails can be extremely valuable. You will gain complete visibility and control over your community, with an activity log, unique user codes, and special permissions.

multifamily

Are you ready to take your access control of shared spaces to the next level?

Modern access control systems are a cost-effective way to increase property value and attract more residents. They also reduce rekeying costs and make leasing and maintenance staff more efficient.

Rently, the leader in smart home technology and self-guided tours in the rental industry, partners with clients to tailor their access control solutions with hardware options designed to meet their specific community’s needs and requirements.

Our new Access Panel with Intercom is the ultimate solution for property managers and residents, providing seamless control over access to shared spaces in any property type.

Activate the intercom function at entrances or use it as an access reader at amenities, with the ability to create schedules and enable reservations.The virtual intercom system offers voice and video communication, so residents can grant access after verifying a visitor’s identity.

The installation process is simple, with no additional access controller or hub required. Since it’s only one device, you save money on hardware and installation costs. This innovative access control device also connects to a standard 120 VAC outlet, making it easy to get started.

Whether you’re enhancing security at front gates, managing access to amenities like the pool, gym, and clubhouse, or adding intercom capability for convenient guest access, our solution has you covered.

See how it works:

Want to learn more? Visit our Rently Access Panel with Intercom page and schedule a demo today.

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