Whether you’re interested in implementing a security plan for a high-rise condo, a townhouse complex or an apartment building, it’s important to keep in mind that not all security services are created equal.
Trusting your residential security needs to anyone other than the best is equivalent to having no security plan at all. Plus, you would be paying a hefty price for inferior security or concierge services. Implementing the right measures and having a professional security guard on site doesn’t just deter intruders and bad behavior, but in times of crisis and emergencies, you’ll know that matters will be handled promptly and professionally.
Here’s why you should trust professionals for condo security:
You’ll get a comprehensive security plan that meets your exact needs.
A first-rate company doesn’t just send a guard to sit in the lobby; they’ll establish a solid condo security plan that’s tailored to your community’s unique setup. They’ll start by meeting with you, your property manager and possibly even your superintendent to get a sense of your needs and challenges. This will include doing a walk-around and a complete site inspection. You should be assigned an account manager to oversee your security services, who will work with all stakeholders to develop a plan that’s right for your building—based on tried-and-true strategies and procedures.
They provide much more than just a friendly face in the lobby.
When most people think about security in residential properties, they think about the guard who says “good morning” as you leave for work. It’s true that customer service is an important part of what residential security solutions entail. These resident-oriented services can include anything from receiving packages and food deliveries to booking amenities and greeting guests. However, when it comes to the roles of a security guard in a condominium, his or her main raison d’être is to ensure the safety and security of the residents.
A superior security company only hires the best and trains them to be the best.
A top company will have a rigorous hiring process, which means they only employ the very best candidates. Once they’re hired, they undergo thorough training on a range of topics—from how to handle intruders, to fire safety training and what to do in a medical emergency (more about this below). The result? From your front-door concierge to the team managing your account off-site, you can feel confident that you’re getting elite security services and that the residents are in capable hands.
You can count on professional security guards to keep residents safe.
Expert security guards are trained in how to detect suspicious behavior so they can help prevent potential issues. They’re also trained in how to respond when issues actually arise; for example, if an unwanted guest enters the building, a professional security guard will calmly and effectively escort the person from the premises without attracting attention and disturbing the residents. Also, a good security company will provide their guards with immediate backup or support from their mobile patrol unit and/or 24-hour operations center.
Qualified security guards know what to do in a medical emergency.
Guards from top-notch companies have some medical training and know how to help people who need medical attention, or know whom to call and exactly what to say to get the help they need. In fact, Blaine Mitchell, a senior executive at GardaWorld who works in Security Services, said that they’ve had “several incidents” where their security guards have saved lives as a result of doing CPR and using an automated external defibrillator (AED).
A note about security services in condos with Airbnb rentals:
Airbnb activity tends to pick up in the summer, with more people traveling and in need of places to stay. Airbnb hosts or those offering short-term rentals will often provide guests or renters with a spare key or key fob, possibly in a lock box. A couple of potential security issues with this approach are as follows: Firstly, a thief could see the lockbox code if the Airbnb guest isn’t careful; and secondly, both key fobs and regular keys can be duplicated and distributed, giving unauthorized non-residents access to the property’s facilities. Having a professional security guard based in the lobby to monitor and interact with those entering the building can deter intruders. A well-trained guard can also detect intruders. Another idea to prevent or restrict unauthorized building access is to implement a system with vertical access control cards, together with card readers in elevators, stairways and beside doors. If anyone in the condo is renting out their home on Airbnb, it’s best to consult with security professionals to ensure the most reliable measures are in place—which almost certainly include stationing an expert security guard by the front entrance to monitor the increased traffic. Keeping an up-to-date list of condo residents and recognizing the residents by face is key in managing the influx of Airbnb in metropolises.
There are many advantages to having security services at residential properties, but you will only truly benefit from them if you contact a security company that’s a cut above the rest—and one with a significant amount of experience serving residential properties. With professional security solutions in place, everyone can feel more comfortable in their homes knowing their building is being watched over by professionals.
Learn more about GardaWorld’s security and concierge services for condos and other properties here. Or, if you have specific questions or want a quote, feel free to contact us.
For more than 25 years, GardaWorld has provided security services for two luxury condominium properties in Scarborough, Canada. Learn more about this long-standing partnership offering adaptable services based on client needs by reading this case study.
