Tenant wants to have their own security system in apt building???

Question

I have small apt building 10 units, one main front entrance and three back doors for each floor, there are 3 floors. I have a tenant or more so their parents that would like to have their own alarm system. Any thoughts on this. This unit does not have its own private entrance. It is actually right off the main front door.  My hesitations are if there were problem authorities would still need to get in the front door. Would need to know the code for maintenance.  If it goes off an error how can one shut it off. If she could not be contacted. Thanks and let me know your thoughts!

Ted Trost · Answer

The alarm system should be on that tenant's unit only, and not on any common areas/entrances.

Ray Harrell · Answer

There are plenty of wireless systems available that she can install. If someone "broke" into her unit, the authorities would likely use the same method of entrance that the burglar used. You should NOT list yourself as a contact on her contract. That way if it goes off and the police respond, she will be charged...not you! Also stipulate if for any reason authorities must force entrance, she has to pay for the repairs.

Eric S. · Answer

Everyone thank you for your thoughts. Other concern if it starts going off erroneously and bothered the tenants. Thanks again for the suggestions.

Jeff B. · Answer

This system is known to be easily HACKED!  Forbes.com says:

• Anyone who can locate a SimpliSafe owner can use basic hardware and  software, bought for between $50 and $250, to harvest customer PINs and  turn alarms off at a distance of up to 200 yards away, said Dr Andrew  Zonenberg, senior security consultant at IOActive. SimpliSafe has also  installed a one-time programmable chip in its alarm, meaning there's no  chance of an over-the-air update. It means there's no patch coming,  leaving all owners without a remedy other than to stop using the  equipment, Zonenberg said.

Mike Cumbie · Answer

Hi @Eric S.

There are wireless systems as @Ray Harrell mentioned. Also I would guess the ability to have separate codes for different people would be pretty standard now. So If they want to get one and give you your own code to disarm for maintenance or emergency purposes, I would not have an issue. If something happened they would know what code opened it.

Just my 2 cents and good luck!

Eric S. · Answer

Thanks Ray,

Any thoughts best way to manage maintenance, I don't get myself in a liability situation where we know the code and something happens and can be blamed on us. Thanks!

Tenant wants to have their own security system in apt building???

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