Enhancing Multifamily Living

Feb. 2, 2025
The Imperative of Upgrading Access Control Systems

In the ever-evolving landscape of multifamily housing, property owners and managers are constantly seeking innovative solutions to enhance security, improve resident satisfaction, and maintain a competitive edge against newer luxury apartment complexes. One critical area that demands attention, and is frequently overlooked, is the building's access control system and door hardware. Upgrading these solutions goes beyond replacing old locks with new ones, and, instead, includes embracing readily available technology to create a more secure, convenient, and seamless living experience for residents.

This article explores the importance of upgrading access control systems, approaches to overhauling these systems, and key considerations for property owners who own existing properties and are considering an investment in this area.

The Importance of Upgrading Access Control Systems

1.       Staying Competitive: In today's market, multifamily properties must differentiate themselves to attract and retain tenants. According to a survey by the National Multifamily Housing Council, 57% of renters are willing to pay more for enhanced security features, indicating a strong preference for properties that prioritize safety. Upgraded access control systems offer a modern, tech-savvy appeal that can set a property apart from its competitors.

2.       Improved Renter Acquisition: Modern access control solutions, such as smart locks and integrated property management systems, can significantly enhance the appeal of a property. A recent study by Allegion found that 63% of millennials, a key demographic in the rental market, prefer keyless entry systems. Properties that offer these amenities have the opportunity to see improved renter acquisition and retention rates.

3.       Enhanced Security and Convenience: Traditional locks are susceptible to issues such as key duplication and unauthorized access. Upgraded systems provide robust security features, including electronic keys, access logs, and remote management. This not only enhances security but also offers unparalleled convenience for both residents and property managers. The same Schlage study revealed that 55% of renters prioritize smart home technology, further emphasizing the demand for modern security solutions.

4.       Improved Operational Efficiency: Upgrading to smart locks can lead to significant time and cost savings for property managers. According to a report by Multifamily Executive, smart locks can reduce the time spent on maintenance and rekeying apartments by up to 50%. This efficiency not only lowers operational costs but also allows property managers to focus on more strategic tasks, enhancing overall property management.

5.       Overall Resident Experience: A seamless access control system can greatly enhance the resident experience. Features like keyless entry, smartphone integration, and visitor management contribute to a more convenient and enjoyable living environment. Happy residents are more likely to renew leases and recommend the property to others. The National Apartment Association reports that properties with smart technology, including stylish fixtures and smart locks, have a 60% higher likelihood of lease renewal.

Approaching an Access Control Solution Overhaul

When considering an upgrade to a building's access control system, property owners have several upgrade options available to them. If a property is currently using mechanical locks, it doesn’t have to jump all the way to mobile credentials and a consolidated Proptech solution. There are ways to incrementally grow into the next best thing. Property owners typically encounter one of three scenarios when approaching an upgrade:

1.       Mechanical to Non-connected Electronic: For properties with traditional mechanical locks, a common first step is transitioning to non-connected electronic locks. This upgrade provides immediate benefits such as eliminating the need for physical keys and reducing the risk of unauthorized access due to key duplication. Electronic locks can be programmed with unique codes for each tenant, offering a straightforward yet effective enhancement to security.

2.       Electronic to Smart Wireless Electronic Locks: Properties with existing electronic locks can further enhance their systems by adopting smart wireless electronic locks, like the Schlage Control Mobile Enabled Smart Lock. These locks offer features like remote access, smartphone integration, and real-time monitoring. This transition provides a significant upgrade in terms of convenience and control, allowing property managers to manage access remotely and respond swiftly to security issues.

3.       Smart Locks to Holistic Integrated Ecosystem: For properties already equipped with smart locks, the next step is integrating these locks into a holistic access control and property management ecosystem via Proptech partner. This approach combines access control with other smart property management solutions, such as energy management and tenant communication platforms. The result is a comprehensive system that enhances operational efficiency and provides a seamless experience for residents.

Key Considerations for Upgrading Access Control Systems

When planning an upgrade, multifamily property owners should consider several key factors:

1.       Budget and ROI: Upgrading access control systems can be a significant investment. Property owners should evaluate the cost against the potential return on investment (ROI), considering factors such as increased property value, improved tenant acquisition, and reduced operational costs.

2.       Scalability and Future-Proofing: It's essential to choose a system that can grow with the property and adapt to future technological advancements. Scalability ensures that the system can accommodate additional units or features without requiring a complete overhaul.

3.       Integration with Existing Systems: The chosen access control solution should seamlessly integrate with existing property management systems. This integration enhances efficiency by centralizing control and providing a unified platform for managing all aspects of the property.

4.       User Experience: The system should be user-friendly for both residents and property managers. Intuitive interfaces and straightforward management tools are crucial for ensuring that the system enhances, rather than complicates, daily operations.

5.       Security Features: Security should be a top priority. Property owners should look for solutions that offer advanced security features, such as encryption, access logs, and real-time alerts. These features provide peace of mind and help protect residents and property assets.

6.       Supplier Support and Maintenance: Reliable vendor support is critical for the successful implementation and ongoing maintenance of the access control system. Property owners should choose partners with a proven track record of excellent customer service and support.

In the competitive world of multifamily housing, upgrading access control systems is not just a trend — it's a necessity. By investing in modern, integrated access control solutions, property owners can enhance security, improve tenant satisfaction, and ensure their properties remain attractive in the marketplace. With careful planning and consideration, an access control overhaul can be a strategic move that delivers long-term benefits for both residents and property managers.

Jason Newland, RA, NCARB, is Allegion's U.S, Multifamily Specialist, Electronics Team Lead

About the Author

Jason Newland | Allegion US Multifamily Specialist, Electronics Team Lead

Jason Newland, RA, NCARB, is Allegion's U.S, Multifamily Specialist, Electronics Team Lead