How to Improve Security in Strata Properties
Strata properties are shared spaces, home to diverse residents. These spaces come with unique challenges when it comes to security. Owners corporation managers and strata managers play a vital role in ensuring a safe environment for everyone. With proper planning and practical measures, you can enhance safety in strata properties while addressing both present and future needs.
In this blog, we’ll explore how to improve strata property security, provide actionable tips, and dive into real-world examples that highlight effective solutions.
Why Security in Strata Properties Matters
Strata properties often have multiple entry points, shared facilities, and a steady flow of visitors. Without proper security, these areas can become vulnerable to theft, vandalism, and unauthorised access. For owners corporation managers, ensuring safety isn’t just about preventing crime. It’s about building trust with residents, protecting assets, and fostering a sense of community.
Failing to address security concerns can lead to:
- Increased liability for property damage or injuries.
- Higher insurance premiums.
- Dissatisfied residents who might lose confidence in management.
Understanding these risks is the first step to implementing effective strata property security tips.
1. Conducting a Comprehensive Security Audit
A security audit identifies weak points in a property’s safety measures. It’s a key step in uncovering vulnerabilities before they become bigger issues.
Steps to Conduct a Security Audit:
- Assess all entry and exit points. Look for areas that lack surveillance or proper lighting.
- Inspect shared facilities like car parks, gyms, and storage areas. These are common hotspots for theft.
- Check the functionality of existing systems, like intercoms, gates, or locks.
A real-world example comes from a strata management in Melbourne firm that discovered a car park lacked adequate CCTV coverage. After installing high-resolution cameras, incidents of vandalism dropped by 60%.
Practical Tip: Hire a security consultant to ensure your audit is thorough and up to date.
2. Upgrading Physical Security Measures
Physical upgrades often have the most immediate impact. Modernising outdated systems improves both safety and resident confidence.
Examples of Physical Upgrades:
- Installing security systems for strata properties, such as motion-activated lighting and keyless entry systems.
- Replacing old locks with digital ones. These offer better control and eliminate the need to rekey locks after tenant changes.
- Adding bollards or barriers to prevent unauthorised vehicle access.
For instance, a Sydney-based strata complex upgraded its aging intercom system to a smartphone-compatible access system. Residents could now grant temporary access to guests remotely, reducing the risk of strangers wandering through the building.
Pro Tip: Prioritise solutions that balance security with convenience for residents.
3. Leveraging Technology for Advanced Security
The rise of smart technology has transformed ways to secure strata properties. Tech-based solutions not only boost security but also simplify management tasks.
Smart Security Solutions Include:
- AI-powered surveillance cameras that detect unusual activity and send alerts in real time.
- Cloud-based access control systems, allowing managers to monitor and manage remotely.
- License plate recognition systems for car parks, ensuring only authorised vehicles gain entry.
One Melbourne complex installed a facial recognition system at its main entry. This eliminated the need for residents to carry fobs while ensuring non-residents couldn’t gain access.
Future Implications: As technology evolves, biometric systems and AI will become more affordable, enabling broader adoption across strata properties.
4. Educating Residents About Safety Practices
Security is a shared responsibility. Even the best systems fail without resident cooperation. Managers must educate residents on strata building safety upgrades and their role in maintaining safety.
How to Involve Residents:
- Organise safety workshops that teach basic practices, like locking doors and reporting suspicious activity.
- Create a strata property safety guide outlining emergency procedures and contact information.
- Use newsletters or apps to share regular security updates.
An example of this approach comes from a Brisbane strata complex that launched a “Community Watch” initiative. Residents received training on recognising threats and reporting them quickly. Over time, incidents in the area dropped significantly.
Practical Tip: Make security education an ongoing effort rather than a one-time event.
5. Partnering with Security Professionals
Hiring professionals ensures your property stays ahead of potential risks. Security firms provide tailored strata property safety solutions that meet the unique needs of your building.
Benefits of Working with Security Experts:
- They can recommend security upgrades for strata properties based on current trends and best practices.
- Professionals can monitor systems 24/7, ensuring quicker responses to incidents.
- Regular maintenance ensures all equipment works properly.
For example, a Perth-based strata manager partnered with a local security firm to implement mobile patrols at night. This deterred break-ins and gave residents peace of mind.
Key Insight: A small investment in professional help can save significant costs in the long run.
Key Trends in Strata Security
- Sustainability and Security: Many strata complexes are integrating eco-friendly solutions, like solar-powered security cameras.
- Cybersecurity Concerns: With the rise of smart systems, protecting resident data is becoming just as important as physical security.
- Personalisation: Residents now expect customised solutions, like app-based access control, tailored to their lifestyles.
Future Outlook: As technology advances, strata security will become more interconnected, offering both convenience and protection. However, it’s crucial for managers to stay informed and proactive.
FAQs
1. What is the role of owners corporation managers in security?
Owners corporation managers oversee the implementation and maintenance of security measures. They ensure compliance with regulations, coordinate upgrades, and address resident concerns.
2. How can I start improving security in my strata building?
Begin with a security audit to identify weak points. Upgrade outdated systems, educate residents, and consult professionals for tailored solutions.
3. Are smart security systems worth the investment?
Yes. Smart systems provide better control, convenience, and adaptability, often leading to long-term savings and increased resident satisfaction.
4. How do I educate residents about security?
Organise workshops, distribute safety guides, and use digital communication tools to share updates and reminders about best practices.
5. What’s the most common security issue in strata properties?
Unauthorised access is a frequent issue, often caused by inadequate access control systems or residents not following security guidelines.
Secure Your Strata Property Today
Improving security in strata properties is essential for protecting residents, assets, and shared spaces. By conducting audits, upgrading systems, and embracing technology, owners corporation managers can create safer environments while boosting resident trust. Don’t wait for an incident to highlight vulnerabilities. Proactive steps today can prevent major issues tomorrow.
For expert advice on strata management in Melbourne, visit Keystone Strata Group and discover tailored solutions that work.
Please call us today on 1300 699 737 or leave an enquiry.
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