Ultimate Guide to Condo Security: Protecting Your Home

Condos require extra security measures to ensure the safety of residents and their belongings. The condo association and residents are both responsible for taking safety measures of every kind to save themselves from incidents.

In this article, we will take a look at the common condo security risks to give you a better idea of the security you need. We will also discuss how people can ensure their security through security cameras, guards, alarm systems, etc.

Common Condo Security Risks

Vehicle Theft

Vehicle theft is extremely common in condos as there are too many vehicles and it’s difficult to control and recognize each vehicle and the owner. Secondly, it’s difficult to control or restrict the entry and exit points or refrain people from entering.

Break-Ins

Thousands and hundreds of people visit a condo each day. Therefore, unauthorized people can get into condos easily by bypassing the security posts. They can break into houses through windows and other areas to steal valuable items.

Trespassing

People can enter unwanted and restricted places. Due to massive footfall, it is tough to prevent trespassing. It always remains a common issue in condos.

Vandalism

People often try to harm the belongings of others. They could damage vehicles, windows, security cameras, etc. Anything accessible can be damaged, and owners can’t figure out who’s responsible.

Fire Safety

The common reason for fire is carelessness. Not everyone living in the condo would care much about it and ensure proper fire safety. Secondly, the fire safety equipment could be faulty due to no maintenance. The emergency exits could be blocked.

How to Ensure Your Condo Security?

Here are some common condo security measures that everyone should consider.

Enhance Door and Window Security

To prevent break-ins, ensure the doors and windows are properly safeguarded. Install rigid and tough locks on the doors to prevent easy lock-picking. Secondly, it is better to have grills around the window, so no one could enter the house even if the glass is broken.

Use Alarm Systems

Alarm systems are a must-have in condos as they quickly alert everyone in the neighborhood. If there is any fire, the alarm system could act quickly.

Video Surveillance

Video surveillance is essential to keep an eye on everything happening. It can be used as evidence if needed. Cameras should be placed at suitable locations, such as the entrance, exit, parking lot, lift, etc.

Getting to Know Neighbors

Your neighbors are your closest friends. They can reach quickly if you need help in any situation. Therefore, it’s better to know them and have a good understanding. Cooperate with them in dealing with condo security risks.

Security Guards

Security guards can keep an eye on the people entering the condo. They can ensure security and act quick if there is any security issue.

Best Security System for Condo

Security Camera

For security cameras, you can go with Reolink. You can choose PoE, Wi-Fi, or battery-powered cameras according to your needs. You can even install a complete security camera system to cover a wider area. They offer real-time alerts without any subscription, remote access, incredible video quality, night vision, and other advanced features.

For a versatile security solution, the Reolink Duo 3 Wi-Fi is an excellent choice. It provides high-resolution video, motion tracking, and color night vision, all without requiring a subscription. Its dual-lens design offers wide coverage, making it perfect for monitoring both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Doorbell Camera

Unit owners can install Reolink doorbells at their gates. It allows them to keep an eye on the people around the door. It sends real-time alerts to the connected devices. They can take quick action and use the recorded footage as evidence.

Smart Door Lock

Smart door locks give people peace of mind. People can lock their doors from any location and be sure that their house is secured. In case of a break-in attempt, they will receive an alert. You can go with some popular smart door lock companies like August, Lockly, and Ultraloq.

Motion Contact Sensor

In restricted areas, Honeywell, ADT, Ring, and SimpliSafe motion contact sensors are worth it. They can alert if there is any unauthorized access or unwanted persons in the area.

Door and Window Sensors

Break-in attempts and robberies happen through doors and windows. Therefore, you must install sensors from ADT, SimpliSafe, Ring, or any other reliable company. These sensors send a notification or alert when someone tries to open the door or window.

Alarm System

Alarm systems of ADT, Abode, SimpliSafe, and Vivint are popular. They offer incredible security and are quite beneficial for condos. They alert everyone if something happens.

Legal Consideration for Condo Security Issues

Every condo has an association that makes rules for safety, security, management, etc. You must read the rules and regulations in the first place to avoid any inconvenience.

The condo association is responsible for reasonable security measures, including security guards, security cameras, etc.

In any way, a condo association or a unit owner cannot invade others' privacy. They can only install security cameras where privacy is not expected. Secondly, it should comply with the state or local laws.

Residents have the right to check the security cameras and get footage if needed.
If the condo association fails to provide the security or does not offer what was promised in the contract, residents can take legal action.

FAQs

1. Can you put a security system in a condo?

Yes, you can put a security system in a condo. But make sure to read the rules and regulations of the condo association.

2. Who is responsible for security in a condo?

The management or condo association is responsible for the common areas, such as the parking lot, entrance, lobbies, hallways, etc. However, the owner of the individual unit is responsible for his property.

3. What is the meaning of condo security?

Condo security is to protect the residents and their belongings. It includes security guards, fire alarms, security cameras, intercom, proper lighting, etc.

Conclusion

People living in condos need to be extra careful in terms of security. Due to massive footfall in the condo, there are risks of vandalism, break-ins, parcel theft, vehicle theft, trespassing, etc. Condo associations and residents need to work together and take some security measures for everyone’s safety.