Concerns and tips for how to use the security systems in your HOA home
It’s your obligation as a neighborhood manager to keep your residents secure from both internal and external security threats. People opt to live in gated communities because of the security and seclusion they give. While neighborhood gate systems, barrier arms, and manned guardhouses are extraordinary security measures, they can only go so far. Intruders, vandals, and thieves are becoming savvier, so staying one step ahead is critical. It is mission-critical to prevent intrusion, theft, and vandalism, as well as a variety of other crimes. Here is some advice to help you get started.
Security cameras, access control systems, gate systems, and visitor management will be installed in the majority of luxury HOA communities.
Installing an adequate security system in your community will help you save money and prevent liability.
The clubhouse/recreation center is the “flagship” of your homeowner’s association, serving as a central gathering place for members to congregate, mingle, and entertain their guests. Inside the clubhouses of many HOAs, there is pricey equipment. The clubhouse is a common target for robbers because most HOAs do not have adequate security systems or cameras. We usually urge that homeowner association invest in a good video verification alarm system, access control, and cameras to protect the clubhouse.
Access control will aid in tracking who enters and exits the clubhouse as well as limiting access. Security cameras can record footage and provide proof in the event of a break-in. Police can respond more rapidly to video verification alarm systems.
Security for the HOA Gated Community
For homeowners’ organizations, security is a significant concern. Everyone wants to live in a safe and secure environment. However, a board must strike a balance between the privacy concerns of owners and their convenience. When planning to install HOA security systems, there are a few things to consider.
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1) Security experts can build and deploy intrusion detection systems that are professionally monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week to detect and deter potentially harmful actions.
2) Today’s fully interactive security systems may be handled from anywhere, and sophisticated automated activities can improve security while also lowering expenses.
3) Monitor your community in real-time.
4) A video surveillance system can provide you with a detailed image of your neighborhood and increase the safety of your residents.
5) The security of the perimeter is critical. Keep a watch on your parking lots, entryways, and other spots near the community’s perimeter. This is frequently where vandalism begins.
Cloud Storage
Once you have all those video recordings of your property, you’ll need to store them safely for some time. Remember these tips.
1) Using servers and mobile apps, you may record and store video off-site and remotely access footage from numerous locations.
2) Utilize a continuous recording system that runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
3) Protect video data from being harmed or destroyed.
4) Invest in specialist video management software and equipment only if the board recommends it.
5) Security cameras come in a variety of brands and types. The most popular designs are bullet, turret, and dome. You can monitor and prevent theft in the community clubhouse by installing security cameras in the clubhouse. Security cameras that are visible to the public or covert security cameras are both possible.
Should You Hire Security Guards?
As most people are aware, gated communities frequently employee security guards in the front to keep individuals who do not belong there out. Homeowner associations spend a lot of money on security guards.
Many homeowner associations are unable to provide this service due to the high cost of an hourly wage and the costs of insurance, perks, and other expenses. Thankfully, homeowner associations may achieve that security without paying for expensive security guards by using surveillance systems.
Homeowner associations can get ‘virtual security guards‘ by installing security cameras, DVRs, and remote viewing capabilities in their surveillance systems. Security cameras can deter crimes .
Members of the gated community can use security cameras as well to keep an eye on their private property. They need to get permission from the board, however.
The majority of gated communities will have recreational spaces where residents can relax and have fun. These include a public pool, clubhouse, tennis courts, basketball court, and play areas for the kids. It’s essential to have reasonable security cameras in places like this.
While the gated community may have security officers roaming the grounds, it makes far more sense to install a security camera system to maintain safety without the need for someone to be present. The cameras will be able to monitor the leisure areas, and the DVRs will allow the association to see what happened the night before in the event of vandalism. A top-notch security system is often used in gated communities.
Below are a few more tips to make this process run more smoothly.
1. Make sure your HOA is safe.
An assessment is the first thing you need to do to ensure your HOA is safe. The only way to know how safe your community is to get an HOA security assessment. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, it refers to an on-site security assessment identifying which regions of your community are vulnerable to threats. It identifies potential security flaws to plug them into efficient solutions while also estimating expenses.
2. Stay up to date on liability laws.
The legislation varies by state, but communities may be held liable for injuring third parties or causing injury to others. Check to see if this is the case in your state and if it is, post signs in public places that clearly explain the regulations.
Slips and falls to dog bites are all examples of premises liability lawsuits, along with swimming pool or elevator accidents and even injuries caused by poor maintenance. To avoid this, make sure that the common areas of your HOA are always clean.
4. Regular Maintenance of HOA Security Systems
It’s critical to schedule security system maintenance and repairs regularly. You’ll need to set up a service contract.
5. Annually Review Resident Security
Every year, an HOA board should survey or check in with residents to ensure that security measures are working correctly. Find out if folks in your neighborhood feel insecure, and if so, what makes them feel frightened and in what conditions. This will help you determine which security flaws need to be addressed. Although this is typically done during the security assessment, it is also a good idea to check in with residents on a frequent basis.
6. Use Landscaping to your Advantage
When it comes to HOA crime prevention, some HOAs believe Landscaping plays a minor impact. In reality, the opposite is true. For criminals, overgrown vegetation might be a good hiding area. Climbing into second-floor windows can be done using extended tree branches. Maintain proper Landscaping at all times to avoid these things from happening.
7. Ensure Effective Security Measures
You may already have security measures in place, but make sure they’re working correctly. The security fence should be six to eight feet tall. Post clear warning signs that specify what residents can and cannot do.
8. Set Up a Neighborhood Watch Program
A neighborhood watch program is an excellent method to engage residents and make them feel safe—volunteers from the community patrol blocks in a rotating pattern to prevent crimes.
9. Educate the Community
Because the HOA’s scope is restricted to shared spaces, they have no way of ensuring adequate security in the HOA or home safety. Educating residents on safety protocols is an intelligent method, to do.
10. Collaborate with Local Law Enforcement
The HOA board shouldn’t act alone regarding security in HOA communities. Associations should develop a working relationship with local law enforcement to prevent crime.
Consider Professional Services
HOA boards can hire security companies to keep the neighborhood safe. Professionals have more experience with security and crime prevention, as well as the tools and equipment that are needed to do it.
Choose a security company not associated with board members to minimize conflict of interest. Always look for licensed professionals with experience in gated communities and HOAS.
Professional HOA Security Systems
Nexlar is the market leader in scalable, creative, and integrated security systems for HOAs that are easy to use and set up. For both private and public clients, we are here for you. Our goal is to use technology to solve the most challenging problems your HOA is having. We have a history of coming up with new and personalized solutions.
That’s why we get to work on some of the most essential and complex security and technology projects for many government agencies and big businesses. Friendly and knowledgeable consultants can help you plan and build cutting-edge tech solutions. They can also help you implement and maintain them.
Please call us at (281) 407-0768. We help you get the best security system for your HOA.
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