Top Security Concerns in Multi-Tenant Buildings—and How to Fix Them

Multi-tenant buildings, whether residential, commercial, or mixed-use, face unique security challenges. Ensuring the safety and security of all tenants while maintaining convenient access is a delicate balance. But don’t worry! We’re here to highlight the top security concerns in multi-tenant buildings, and even better, provide you with effective solutions to keep your space secure and comfortable. Let’s dive in.

Unauthorised Access

One of the biggest security concerns in multi-tenant buildings is unauthorised access. There are countless stories of thefts happening in new apartment complexes within the first year. Why? Because traditional mechanical keys can be stolen, copied, or lost, making it easy for thieves to get in. This problem isn’t just for new buildings; it can happen anytime a key goes missing. Replacing all the locks is expensive, time-consuming, and a hassle. Plus, there’s a big security risk between losing a key and changing the locks.

The Solution: Smart Access Control 

Smart access control systems, like Tapkey, offer a robust solution to this problem. These systems use encrypted digital keys, which can be managed and monitored remotely. Tenants can use their smartphones or NFC transponders to enter the building, ensuring only authorised individuals gain access. If someone loses their access, it can be easily revoked or reassigned without changing the locks, making the building much more secure.

Tailgating

Tailgating, a form of unauthorised access, is particularly problematic in busy buildings where monitoring every entry is challenging. But what even is tailgating? Tailgating occurs when an unauthorised person follows an authorised individual into a secure area. This issue becomes more pronounced when multiple people need access simultaneously, as you don’t want a queue forming at the front door due to slow access processes. How can this be overcome without causing delays?

Solution: Security Turnstiles 

Implementing security turnstiles integrated with smart access control can mitigate tailgating. Turnstiles require individual credentials for each person, preventing unauthorised entry. When combined with a smart access control system, it ensures that only those with valid digital keys can pass through. Quickly and conveniently, without compromising security.

Lack of Surveillance

Insufficient surveillance can lead to increased criminal activity, as there are fewer deterrents for potential offenders. Without proper monitoring, it’s difficult to track and respond to security incidents effectively. Areas like lobbies, corridors, parking garages, and stairwells are particularly vulnerable without adequate surveillance.

Solution: Comprehensive CCTV Systems

A comprehensive CCTV system is essential for monitoring common areas, entry points, and other critical zones. Footage can be reviewed to identify unauthorized access attempts and support investigations if an incident occurs. Smart access control systems also allow for real-time monitoring and access logs, providing an extra layer of security.

Poor Visitor Management

Managing visitors in multi-tenant buildings can be chaotic, leading to security breaches if visitors are not properly tracked and authorised. Traditional sign-in sheets or unmanaged access points can result in unauthorised individuals roaming the premises. Yet again unauthorised access! This can lead to potential threats to both property and personal safety. Not to mention with traditional security there is no flexibility when a technician has to quickly gain access to a building. It always requires a utility manager on site. 

The Solution? You guessed it—smart access management systems.

Smart access systems streamline the process of registering and tracking visitors. With remote issuing of temporary digital keys to visitors, ensuring they have access only to designated areas and times. This system can be integrated with smart access control for seamless entry and exit.

Wrapping It Up

Security in multi-tenant buildings is multifaceted, requiring a combination of advanced technologies and proactive management. Smart access control systems, such as those provided by Tapkey, address many of these challenges by providing secure, convenient, and manageable access solutions. By integrating these systems with other security measures like CCTV and visitor management building managers can create a safe and secure environment for all tenants.