The Importance of Smart Access Control for Multifamily

With a large portfolio, managing traditional modes of entry like physical keys and locks can be cumbersome at best and an active security risk at worst. That’s why many operators are turning to smart access control technology to streamline their operations and establish multiple layers of security.

Smart access control devices can be used across your property at community entrances (intercoms), for shared spaces like amenities or elevators (access panels/keypads), and at individual apartments (smart locks). These devices allow multifamily operators to manage access and permissions for not only residents, but staff and vendors as well. Ideally, you want to have a single provider and system, such as Rently, to manage all of your smart access devices.

Why is Smart Access Control Necessary?

First and foremost, smart access control devices are more secure than traditional methods, such as lock and key or keycards, because they use cloud-based computing to manage access. They also help streamline property operations with their ability to be managed remotely. In addition, their flexibility and ease of use also make them the most user-friendly access control solutions.

Community Entrance Access Control

The first component of smart access control for multifamily is a community entrance access control solution. This system is your first line of defense against bad actors entering your community. Therefore, it is essential that your system is reliable and secure. For instance, Rently’s Access Panel with Intercom is UL294 certified, meaning that it meets performance standards for destructive attack defense, line security, endurance, and standby power. It also has an IP65 rating which indicates that it is dust proof and water resistant for reliable outdoor use.

When it comes to access management, having a single access control system at community entrances for visitors, residents, and staff streamlines operations. An intercom is the best way to enable these various entry types. Rently’s Access Panel with Intercom offers entry by code, fob, or the Rently Smart Home App for residents and staff, and entry via intercom for guests.

These flexible entry methods provide your staff and residents with the best possible user experience. If they don’t want to carry keys or have to remember a code, they don’t need to.

They can just use the method that works for them, or at least have a backup way to enter if they do forget their code or their keys.

Access Control for Shared Spaces

Using a smart access control system for shared spaces, like amenities, gives operators the most control over who is able to access certain areas of their community and when. Operators who use Rently’s access control panels can set which panels residents have access to, and set their accessible hours from within their Rently Manager Portal. They can also create amenity reservation schedules and view a complete activity log, gaining even more control and visibility. The enhanced security and command provided by cloud-based access control systems ensures managers’ peace of mind.

Unit Access Control

The final component of a complete smart access control system is smart locks on unit doors. If you’re offering self-guided tours, smart locks are a more secure option than lockboxes with keys. They also allow for those using a centralized leasing model to manage tours remotely without having to move devices around. Then, once a renter signs a lease, you can coordinate a contactless move-in. Rently’s smart home solution has integrations with property management softwares, so unit access (and common area access) can be given and revoked automatically at the start and end of a lease. Factor in the elimination of costs related to maintaining a key management system and rekeying costs, and the savings pile up.

The convenience smart locks offer also extends to residents. In fact, it’s one of the amenities renters are most willing to pay a premium for (67 percent), along with smart thermostats (72 percent), and video doorbells in the unit (65 percent). Smart locks allow for the digital lifestyle that renters are accustomed to extend to their home. They also give residents the flexibility to give temporary access to guests, service providers, and maintenance staff via durational codes.

Centralized Access Control

In order to achieve maximum efficiency, you should be able to manage all of your smart access control devices from a single system. Having one login for one platform streamlines staff workflows by not having to jump from system to system. It also ensures quicker and easier training by only having to learn one interface. In addition, being able to control devices remotely gives your team the flexibility to work remotely while still maintaining full visibility.

Using a single smart access control provider is also more secure. All of their devices should share the same security standards and certifications, which reduces the vulnerabilities that may result from differing standards across devices.

Partnering with a single provider fastracks support as well—you have one point of contact who can help you with all of your devices. Likewise, should you desire to deploy smart access control devices to more communities, scaling is streamlined when you have an established relationship with a provider that understands your needs and expectations.

To learn more about Rently’s smart access control system visit use.rently.com/smart-home.