Key Fobs, Cameras, and other Security Measures for Multi-family

[Jeff S.]

One of our nine-unit apartment buildings has been having a few issues with security lately.  We've had some packages and equipment stolen along with complaints of non-tenants coming into the common areas at all hours of the night.  We are considering a couple ways to combat this type of activity to make all the tenants feel safe and to protect our investment.  One improvement we have considered implementing are new security doors with an automated key fob system instead of keys.  Since the key fobs will be difficult for the tenants to copy, we think we can better control who has access to our buildings.  I was hoping to get some information and recommendations from people who have implemented this type of improvement in their building.  Our goal is not to protect Fort Knox, but instead find the most cost effective way to make it difficult for non-tenants to access our building.  Here are some of the questions we have:

1. Is there a brand or company that you have used for keyless entry systems that you were happy with?

2. If so, can you give a summary of the company/system, some of the features of the system, and what you liked about it?

3. How are the locks installed?  Are new doors required or can we retrofit the lock onto the existing doors?

4. How are the fobs programmed?

5. We have four access doors, and all tenants will have to access all four doors.  Can one fob be programmed for four different doors?

6. Is there a web/app technology associated with the system that would allow us to track certain things remotely?  Such as which fobs are being used and when?  or alert us when a door is left open?

7. Can you provide any cost information that you have about the system?

We are also considering installing security cameras both outside the building and in the common areas.  We would appreciate any information you can provide on cloud based camera systems that you've used and had a positive experience with.

Thanks!