Anyone install cameras in common area in apt buildings?

Question

Looking for experiences in installing camera systems in common areas in apt buildings. I have 3 storie apt building and thinking about installing cameras in the common hallways and one near the front entrance. Anyone share any feedback good or bad. Any brands they would recommend. The area is relatively good area and has good tenants for the most part, but recently a tenant left a very rude note on another tenant's door about being too loud. I feel it would naturally deter any bad behavior and if something was to happen concrete evidence to show the tenant and if worse the court's something happening. Also, depending on the person may provide additional security and comfort knowing that the building is being monitored. Thoughts?

Eric S. · Answer

Thanks for all the feedback everyone!

Oren K. · Answer

I put in 10 cameras in my building as one of the first things when I purchased it. Covers all of the parking lot and entrances. Being remote to the property, I can make sure that grounds cleaning is being done, interior cleaning is on schedule, garbage pickup happens and also check when contractors actually show up and leave. It's not perfect and may still put one in the laundry room but sure helps.

I've even used it as a way to walk contractors around the property (with me on the phone) for quotes with some success.

Almost as a bonus, it is amazing the things you see tenants do.

Oren

Donal Murphy · Answer

Cameras in the common areas, especially the entrances, is a good idea. At my family's building, we also have cameras recording the sidewalk around the building (corner property) and archive the video for 3 years. 3 years is the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New York. And make sure there is a sign politely letting people know the premises is monitored. You're less likely to see a frivolous law suit in case someone wants to say they slipped on ice in front of your property.We also had a problem with a domestic violence issue last year and we had video to give the police.

Laurence K. · Answer

I put a 10 (soon to be 11) camera system in my multifamily property in Akron, Ohio.

I live in Australia so it's great for keeping an eye on things.

I covered all exits and common areas including the car park.

I bought it online from Security Camera Warehouse and installed it myself. Works great.

Bernie Neyer · Answer

Actually the management company had the game camera. You  and get them at Walmart. Some can record for a week. Keep in mind they tend to be motion activated.

Eric S. · Answer

Thanks for the info @Bernie Neyer . What system did you purchase?

Bernie Neyer · Answer

Recently I purchased a small apartment complex. Shortly before we closed a tenant insisted on moving out. The manager at that time let them out and returned part of their cleaning deposit. Our contract required them to give our management company the deposits and 1/2 of the month's rent.

When we got control the vacated apartment was a mess and we needed to replace the flooring and so we didn't return any of the deposit to the seller. Even though the tenant was a pain, from what I've been told, letting them out so quickly should of caused a forfeiture of their deposit.

A few weeks after they moved they started coming back to the complex and hanging out on the stoop of another apartment. Turns out this apartment was the woman's uncle and he began backing them up saying they had just moved to their apartment, which the previous manager did not permit.

The facility didn't allow for wired cameras, so we put up game cameras. When they spotted them, they stopped hanging around. You can always put up  cameras and a sign that says, "This are is being recorded for your safety." You know it is a truth, rules keep honest people honest.

Cameras may help you if someone tries breaking in or there is vandalism.