Apartment living has become increasingly popular in Australia over the last several years. In fact, the number of occupied apartments has increased by approximately 78 per cent.
Do you own an apartment building (or several apartment buildings)? Do you have concerns about the safety of the folks living there? If this is the case, you may want to consider investing in an intercom system.
Read on to learn more about the benefits of apartment intercom systems. You'll also learn how you can choose the right system for your building, as well as what other security measures you can take to keep everyone safe.
Why Invest in Apartment Intercom Systems?
You might be wondering what makes an intercom system so beneficial for those living in apartment buildings. There are actually a lot of perks that come with having an intercom system for your residents and their visitors, including the following:
Improved Communication
First, apartment intercom systems can help to improve communication for those living in the building (or buildings). The intercom system can help them to know who's there to see them and let them in without having to go all the way down to the main entrance.
Intercom speakers can also be used to deliver important messages to everyone who lives in the building. They also make it easy to find and contact a specific individual right away in the event of an emergency.
Versatility
As you can already see, intercom systems are very versatile. Many modern intercom systems come with a variety of features that help to keep buildings running smoothly and ensure that everyone who lives in the building can stay safe and know who's coming to visit them.
Crime Deterrent
Like other pieces of security equipment, the presence of an intercom system can act as a crime deterrent for those who may be trying to enter an apartment building with sinister motives.
With an intercom system, anyone who enters the building (with the exception of the building's residents) must identify themselves and be let in by someone else. This helps to keep burglars and other types of criminals at bay and makes the apartment building a safer place for everyone who lives there.
Affordable Security
Intercom systems can do a lot when it comes to keeping a building secure. They're quite affordable, though. If you are working with a limited budget and don't have a lot of options for building security, an intercom system should definitely be high on your priority list.
Security System Integration
When the time comes to add to your building security system, you won't have to worry about a lack of integration between your existing intercom system and the new equipment you're trying to install.
Many intercom systems integrate seamlessly with other types of security systems, such as CCTV systems and access control equipment. If you work with a professional security company, it'll be easy for you to find equipment that works together and provides the greatest level of protection to your residents.
What to Look for in an APT Intercom System
Okay, you're intrigued by the benefits an intercom system has to offer and are interested in purchasing one.
Crime rates in Australia might be falling, but that doesn't mean you should be lax about your building security and just choose any old intercom. Here are some things to consider when shopping for an intercom system:
Accessibility
First, think about who will be using the intercom system. How many tenants do you have living in your apartment building?
If you have a very large apartment building that you own and manage, you'll want to make sure you choose an intercom system that can accommodate the number of people who will be using it each day.
Consider how easy the intercom system is to use, too. When you have hundreds or possibly even thousands of people using the system, it needs to be easy to operate and accessible to all kinds of users.
Audio or Video
Some intercom systems are audio-only. They let the user speak to the person on the other end, but the two peole communicating cannot see each other.
Video intercom systems, on the other hand, also allow the user who lives in the building to see the person who's talking to them and verify that they are who they say they are.
Audio-only intercom systems can be a more affordable option and work well for many apartments (especially smaller buildings). Video intercom systems offer an added layer of protection, though.
Wireless or Wired
In addition to choosing between audio and video intercom systems, you'll also need to decide whether you want a wired or wireless option. Wired intercom systems often use IP networks or Cat5E/Cat6 cables. Wireless intercoms, instead, use cellular or WiFi connections.
Wireless options can be more affordable in many cases, and they maybe a good option for older buildings so you don't have to worry about modifying walls or other elements. Wired systems may be more reliable, though, since they aren't dependent on a cellular or WiFi connection.
Location
Think about where you're going to place the intercom systems in your building, too. Where will the intercom be located in each unit, for example?
Where is the best location in each apartment or unit to place your room station?
Features
What kind of features do you want your building's intercom system to have? Do you want it to be able to restrict elevator buttons, for example? Should it have a panic alarm option or hands-free and remote operation capabilities?
There are lots of different features intercoms have these days. Consider which ones matter most to you before you make a purchase. Keep in mind, though, that certain features will affect the price of your system.
Existing System Integration
If you already have security equipment in use throughout your building, make sure the intercom you're considering will integrate with it. This will help you avoid having to spend more money than is necessary or go through the process of uninstalling old equipment to make room for something new.
Even if you don't have any existing equipment, it's still a good idea to consider integration for later. You never know when you might want to purchase additional items for added security.
Intercom Installation and Equipment Cost
Of course, you'll need to think about your budget. How much can you afford to spend on an intercom system? Remember to factor in the cost of installation, too.
In almost all cases, it's best to invest in professional installation. This will help you ensure that the system gets set up correctly the first time around. It'll help you avoid any accidental (and potentially expensive) damage to the building, too.
Before you decide on a particular intercom system, get a quote for the full price of the equipment plus the installation. This will make it easier for you to budget accordingly.
Replacing or Upgrading Existing System
Has your current intercom system has started to play up or has stopped working? The best solution is to reuse the existing cabling. You need to have insurances that the system the security company will actually work and perform reliably.
The other consideration is the installation process. This will affect everyone in the complex. Insure that the company has strong processes and experience with upgrading units complexes intercom systems.
Reputation and Track Record
Finally, be sure to read Reputation and track record for each security company you're considering before you make a final decision. See what past and current customers have they have and whether they have the experience for a quality and smooth installation process.
Having this information available simplifies the search process and helps you find the right business to handle the job and provide your residents with the security they deserve.
Beyond the Building Intercom System: Other Security Measures to Consider
When it comes to apartment building security, an intercom system is definitely a great option to consider that can provide you and your residents with peace of mind. There are some other security measures you might want to take along with installing an apartment intercom, though, including the following:
- Security camera or CCTV installation
- Security consultations to assess potential areas of concern
- Access control with keyless options like ID cards, PINs, or biometric scanning
Having your security equipment serviced on a regular basis is important (but often neglected), too. it doesn't matter how much equipment you have to keep your building secure if none of it works properly. Be sure to include maintenance and repairs in your apartment security plan.
Shop for Intercom Systems for Apartment Buildings Today
As you can see, the benefits of apartment intercom systems are too great to ignore. At the same time, there's also a lot to keep in mind when it comes to choosing these systems.
If you follow the guidelines laid out above, though, you'll have an easier time choosing the right system that will work for your building and keep your residents safe. Don't forget about some of the other measures listed above that you may want to consider for additional security, too.
If you're ready to invest in a great intercom system or any other security equipment, or if you want your existing system repaired, we're here to help at Four Walls Security. Contact us today to learn more about our equipment, installation, and repair services or to get a quote for your apartment building. We're delighted to assist with all your security needs.
