Lender · Tampa, FL · Member since 2013 · 2k+ posts · 2k+ votes
Does anyone have any recommendation for a camera system that would alert us when someone enters a property? We recently had squatters attempt to move into one of our vacant rehab properties, but we were able to catch them before they completely moved in. Rather than record, we would like to be alerted to any intruder's presence in a property. The properties would have electricity but no wifi. Has anyone discovered a cost effective solution? Thanks so much in advance for the advice.
I’m looking for the same thing for the same issue. Right now I’m weighing the Reolink Go, Arlo Go, and the Vosker Outdoor 4G. I want one with a battery pack or solar panel that runs on cellular (not WiFi) and has two way communication. Vosker doesn’t have the two way communication, but looks good otherwise.
I’d like to be able to move it from project to project during construction.
Without wifi, you have no options if you want to be alerted. So you must either get wifi or see if a northbound on either side would be willing to give you access to theirs and explain why. They may likely do it as they don’t want crime or squatters near them either.
@Doug Smith I've heard/read about other investors using Simplisafe on their vacant properties. From what I understand, you can use it without WiFi and just have it function as an audible alarm (no alert), or have it function as an audible alarm with monitoring/alert via a cellular connection.
As mentioned Simply Safe is cellular and it is low monthly fee. It is designed to be moved from property to property. They are also a BP sponsor so make sure you use this link:
@Doug Smith I’m not sure if this will work for you in your situation, but I sometimes use a motion-activated “trail cam” that takes still photos and/or short videos. Maybe you’re familiar with them. (They’re commonly used by hunters to scout areas for animal movement.) Anyway they store data on an SD card that you have to check manually, but it is inexpensive, battery operated, and easy to hide. Mine was about $60 and was about the size of a GoPro.
I recently purchased a home that had been vacated. The previous owner had a junkie son that was breaking in and squatting during the acquisition and closing process and otherwise causing trouble. The police needed proof so I set up one of these cameras in the bushes out back near the window where he was making entry. Waited two days and BOOM. Sent the pics to the police and he doesn’t come around any more. Of course you need to be on-site to check it (for the less expensive version) but I’m pretty sure they are now making wifi (or cellular?) enabled trail cams that probably alert you in real time (which would act just like the other traditional security systems). Anyway the one I used was $60 and solved my problem. Hope that helps.
Will security cameras on vacant property lower insurance costs? I out of state for work for awhile and I am getting charged for vacancy rates on insurance. My extended family lives nearby and several of them pass the house everyday.
Greg,
There is not a standard Vacant policy. You need to check with your agent. Also ask if they have other markets that would give a credit. Ask about cameras and also about an alarm system.
I’m looking for the same thing for the same issue. Right now I’m weighing the Reolink Go, Arlo Go, and the Vosker Outdoor 4G. I want one with a battery pack or solar panel that runs on cellular (not WiFi) and has two way communication. Vosker doesn’t have the two way communication, but looks good otherwise.
I’d like to be able to move it from project to project during construction.