What you should know about security as a property manager

Employing a property manager can be a critical aspect to your success if you’re an investor in real estate. The type of property you own will determine the type of property manager you need to employ but usually comes down to either residential, commercial or retail mall space. The property manager will take on many of the responsibilities for the estate, but this can encompass far more than the collection of rent money. 

They can be especially useful for investors who don’t live near the estate or simply aren’t accustomed to the maintenance requirements of the premises. They deal with the needs of tenants covering everything from security issues to plumbing failures and in some cases can even be tax deductible. But while tenant based requirements are quite well known, the role of a property manager in estate security, and their own security, is discussed less often. 

1: Steering clear of dangerous situations

In this role the property manager will need to do regular onsite inspections. If you’re operating on the premises alone then there are some precautions you should be taking. Always let a colleague know where you’re going to be and when. If an accident should happen to occur you’ll be thankful later that someone knew where to check up on you if you can’t answer your phone. 

It’s also important to be aware of your surroundings. There could be physical hazards that you’re not yet familiar with on the property, such as weak infrastructure or jagged and sharp edges. If you hear people arguing on the property do not become involved, but rather contact the authorities if you feel unsafe.

2: Dress practically

Comfortable but solid shoes are important and could even protect you from debris or the surprise jagged edges of material mentioned above. It may also be necessary to move quickly should you encounter a dangerous situation with aggressive animals left on the properly unsecured. In this case, beyond your footwear, you also wouldn’t want to be wearing a long dress, as it could tangle up your legs should you need to move quickly. 

3: Area control

Important in all property management situations is access control. The concept of access control revolves mainly around technology which can prevent unauthorised access to the premises. This can involve facial recognition software or fingerprint scanning. This level of technology is commonly deployed around commercial interests or estates with high quality assets onsite which could be a target for thieves. On less high-risk estates, access control can take on different meanings but in the end is always about restricting unnecessary or unlawful movement around the property.

4: Security cameras

CCTV technology is practically a must these days on most premises you’d be operating on. Not only does it make tenants feel more secure but the mere presence of such a system is often enough to disude ill intending tresspassers to forgo a leisurely inspection of your property.  As most crime takes place at night high quality security cameras can offer a much better image of intruders, should the worst happen. You will even be able to alert the police remotely, from a safe distance.

In the end it’s important to understand all potential risks based on the type of property you’ve been hired to manage and to implement the right solutions for the particular environment. Never place yourself directly in harm’s way when trying to ascertain the local risks but rather take your time assessing the estate and isolating its unique security requirements.