Keyless Entry for Apartments

I have several properties that are nearing 40 years old and the neighborhoods are not what they once were. I need to upgrade my security. I already have cameras on site but am considering keyless entries for the exterior doors and then rolling them into the apartments. Is anyone using these systems and are there some better than others? I really need some input- I cannot find any industry reviews to compare products!

I dont know about the keyless entry idea. It reminds me of a hotel rather than an apartment. Also, what about if someone breaks the code or sees you putting it in? I think Key's and camaras might be the best bet, and of course alarm systems.

April, a number of our clients are successfully using electronic door locks, and have been for years. The technology is fairly reliable and the payback compared to re-keying mechanical locks is about 3-4 years. We've worked with Saflok, and they've done a nice job of creating products to fit the multifamily market.

I haven't seen anyone using true keyless entry, and I know that biometric locks (opened by a thumbprint or a handprint) have been taken out of a number of properties because the technology wasn't reliable enough.

Keyless entry is intriguing to me because it poses the possibility of a completely online lease with kiosk key delivery after an apartment selection. This could substantially improve apartment customer service by allowing owners and managers to focus on service at the apartment rather than service at the point of lease.

Mike I would love to see information regarding these keyless entry systems that you've used. Very interesting...

I worked on a property once that used E-locks by Schlage and they were awesome. No messy key boxes, no re-keying locks, no master keys, easy access to apartments for leasing staff, etc. Plus it just sounds state of the art to prospective residents. I can't say enough good things about them and would recommend them to anyone who has it in their budget to implement a system like this.

On a side note, someone above mentioned a online lease and kiosk key delivery possibility above. As technologically savvy and convenient as that sounds, that's something I would just not like to see becoming a common practice in our industry. I think face to face contact is critical in building resident rapport. If you take that out of the equation, I think you'll be doing more harm than good. Just my 2 cents.

Keyless entry is not necessarily beneficial from a security standpoint. This has been proven with issues related to hotel and access key systems being "hacked." Insuring you have keys secured, good locks in place, and are changing locks or tumblers is critical. Today the Kwikset system where you do not need to remove the tumbler or lock to change out is the best, and it is called Smartkey. Takes about 15 seconds to re-key a lock, and your service staff will love it. Good luck

Pardon me for beeing bias! Check out our line of e-locks from KABA Multihousing at kabamultihousing.com

We first introduced electonic locks to the the industry in 2001. We are supportive members of NAA and NMHC.

I would be happy to provide you all the data points you need in order to evaluate whether these options would be benificial to you. Let me know!

How do you issue codes to the tenants? I have set up keyless locks for the main entrance, door leading to garage, and the tenants apartment entrance. The main door is covered by a security door which utilizes a key. I am trying to figure out the best mannter to issue the various codes to the tenant. Any advice would help. Thank you!