DIY Home Security in Multifamily Buildings

author October 15, 2018 | 5 min read
The use of smart security is on the rise, and consumer demand is expected to increase by approximately 10 percent per year through 2025.The market share for internet-connected security devices is already significant, and smart security technology is being used in 57 percent of smart homes, according to Nielsen.multifamily building Ooma smart securityAs ISPs, developers, and building managers explore new technology solutions, consider the ways that integrating consumer home security can add value to your project.

Today’s Home Security Technology

The advanced technology of today’s home security has mitigated many of the challenges of legacy security systems, which often require old-fashioned landline connections, long-term contracts, and permanent installation that includes drilling holes and running wires.The new generation of smart DIY home security systems is easily customizable and can wirelessly pair with an unlimited number of sensors including motion detectors, door/window sensors, and more. The infrastructure of security has gotten easier because there’s no longer the need for hardwiring. Instead, internet-enabled smart devices can communicate wirelessly through the user’s Wi-Fi network.Additionally, users have complete control of their security from their mobile device, so there’s no need for external monitoring services. Automated notifications will be instantly sent to alert the user if a sensor detects activity. Not only can this help residents protect their valuables, but they can also stay in the know about activity in their homes such as when the dog-walker enters the front door or when their children get home from school.

Benefits of Home Security to Commercial Projects

The interests of residents and property managers are in alignment in their desire for security and safety.The benefits of smart home security to the end-user are significant, and the majority of users, according to Nielsen, say that the technology has increased their peace of mind while also securing their possessions.Because of the strong benefits to the consumer, smart security systems can be a way for a business to add value during development projects or technology initiatives. Here are four key business benefits:
  1. Adding tech-forward technologies such as smart wireless home security system positions projects to be ahead of the curve as consumer demand continues to increase.
  2. It also can provide a competitive edge, potentially attracting more consumer interest than other real estate options that don’t offer smart home security.
  3. Adding home security could also increase business revenues, either through bundling monthly security fees or through increased rental rates.
  4. Because security is a deterrent to burglars, taking steps to reduce break-ins can help protect the reputation of your commercial project, thereby protecting its market value.
These business incentives are not the only ways commercial projects benefit; there are some operational benefits as well.First, it can reduce the operational tasks of property managers or administrators who are responsible for building security. When home security is monitored by the end user, it contributes to a building’s overall safety.Furthermore, it can reduce potential damages. For example, when an under-sink water sensor notifies a resident about a water leak, he or she can take action on it immediately even if not at home. This could reduce the potential damage that could occur if the leak weren’t discovered for hours or days.

Smart Security Implementation

ISPs, developers, and building managers don’t need to reinvent the wheel when implementing smart security. Instead, they can partner with trusted security providers.For example, when one ISP was running a fiber line to a new multifamily housing project, it wanted to add home security to the selection of consumer services on offer to residents. That’s when it turned to the Ooma home security system, a trusted provider of customizable smart home security solutions. Through the partnership, residents were able to access home security packages as a part of their internet service.In another scenario, a commercial property owner partnered with Ooma Home to provide home security to each of the building’s tenants. The security service was bundled as part of the building association’s service fees, making it a streamlined solution for tenants while also adding value to the property.

Sought-after Security Features

Not all security systems are created equal. One feature of Ooma Home security that sets it apart from other solutions is Remote 911, which helps users to seamlessly connect with emergency services that are local to their home.It’s easy to take 911 access for granted. However, today’s smart technology means that a user could discover a home intruder while at the office or on an overseas vacation. In these situations, time is critical. With the home security mobile app, users can dial 911 by tapping a button within the app immediately after seeing the notification.Not only can Remote 911 save time, but the emergency call also won’t go to a national 911 phone bank, which can happen through many providers. Instead, calls to 911 when using the Ooma Home app will automatically connect the dispatcher to the user’s home, even though the call may from a remote location.This feature closes the loop on strong security, from the moment of detection to how a threat is reported.

Types of Smart Home Sensors

Each home security system can be outfitted with a combination of these Ooma Home sensors:
  • Door and window sensor
  • Motion sensor
  • Water sensor
  • Garage door sensor
  • Siren (105 decibels)
Once sensors are at potential intruder entry points or risk locations, a triggered sensor would immediately alert the user via an Ooma Home app notification.Additionally, systems can be customized with sensor integration. For example, an activated motion detector could be set up to trigger the siren.Users can use the app to control security devices remotely. For example, a siren can be deactivated after the threat has been neutralized.

Customizable Security

Adding home security systems at the scale of commercial projects can have an endless number of variables or special circumstances. That’s why Ooma’s security solutions are customizable to fit the needs of a project.Ooma reps coordinate with all parties involved to customize solutions that match security goals, desired customer offerings, and price points. In particular, security solutions can allow end-user security to be coordinated directly with Ooma or be consolidated into other property management fees or ISP service charges.Adding home security to your commercial project has never been easier than with Ooma’s customized solutions.Learn more about Ooma Home security at https://www.ooma.com/home-security/.Article is attributed to the Broadband Communities articleRead more home security articles here.