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Video Access Control: A Brief Guide for Property Management

video access control

If you’re new to owning and managing property – whether it’s an apartment complex, business suite, or your first home – you should consider investing in video access control. What’s video access control? We’re glad you asked. Below we explain what video access control is, how you can benefit from it, and how to easily enable it. Let’s get started! 

What is Video Access Control? 

A video access control system does just what it says it does. It is a security system that provides a live video feed to a central control panel, allowing you to control who has access to your property. While some may differ when it comes to features, every video access control system has these four components: 

  1. Access control panel 
  2. Access reader either (can come with a built-in camera or one installed externally)  
  3. Door release mechanism(s) 
  4. Access credentials (key fobs, mobile devices, or biometric scans)

Video access control systems are the preferred choice for many homeowners and property managers because they can visually identify who is trying to gain access. No more opening your door to check on a stranger or worrying that someone stole an employee’s key fob to gain entry. A video access control system gives you the tools you need to know who’s at the door at any time, providing peace of mind for all. 

How Do You Enable Video Access Control on Your Property? 

There are three common ways to enable video access controls. But before we present them, we want to encourage you to get professional help designing and installing your video access control system rather than do it yourself.  

1. Connect an external camera to your current access control system.

This is usually a solution for people who are already equipped with an access control system that involves RFID cards, keypads, etc.  

PRO: All you must do is buy and install exterior and interior cameras. There’s no need to incur extra costs by purchasing an entirely new system. 

CON: Connecting two different systems is often difficult. Compatibility issues could result in system lags, conflicting information, and incorrect time stamps. So be wary. 

2. Install video intercoms at building entrances.

This allows you to view – and even send – video footage wirelessly between an intercom and your chosen endpoint. typical example of this kind of technology is the Ring doorbell. 

PRO: It’s a simple, cost-effective solution – from purchasing to installation. They also send information wirelessly, reducing the time spent threading multiple wires between the intercom and the endpoint. Some video intercoms also offer two-way video calling capabilities, allowing visitors to see footage of the person talking on the intercom. 

CON: Some (not all) video intercoms aren’t compatible with certain systems – make sure you invest in hardware that’s compatible. 

3. Install camera-equipped keypads with cameras at building entrances.

Doing this allows you to either take a photo or live videos of anyone who enters a building or room after they enter the proper code. 

PRO: It’s affordable and creates a visual “paper trail” that’s easy for you to log and follow. 

CON: This system may not be as technologically advanced as you’d like. While it is effective in certain situations, it may not be effective in every situation. 

Benefits of a Video Access Control System 

Now that we’ve discussed what a video access control system is and what kinds are available for installation let’s talk benefits. While there are many industry-specific benefits to video access control systems (preventing tailgating at gated communities, patient monitoring at hospitals, etc.), we’re going to focus on the industry-agnostic benefits. 

Easy Remote Management. You can view access events – and grant access to visitors and staff – from anywhere on any device since many video access control systems are cloud-based. 

Faster Response Times. Since all video and audio surveillance is being captured in real-time, you can respond to unauthorized entry reports faster, preventing any negative consequences. 

Heightened Security. Video access control systems provide a visual record of tenants, staff, and visitors to your property. You now have far more information about who is accessing your buildings, when they’re accessing it, and why. Not to mention you have greater legal protection should something happen. 

Easy Integration with Your Current Systems. This benefit is entirely provider dependent. Make sure that whatever video access control solution you choose can integrate with your property management software, alarm system, and more. 

Get the Best Video Access Control Solutions with Invision Technologies 

If you’re looking for the best of the best, look no further than Invision Technologies! Our video access control solutions are built to your specifications and are designed to last – boasting the highest reliability and quality. Plus, we help you manage your solution from day one, giving you the technical support you need to stay secure. 

Interested in learning more? We’d be happy to answer any questions you might have. 

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