The holiday season is a magical time of year, but it can also bring increased risks for multifamily communities. Between package thefts, increased visitor traffic and residents traveling out of town, property managers need to stay vigilant to protect their communities. The good news? Many effective solutions don’t require a hefty budget—just a little time and organization.
Here are some practical holiday security tips tailored for on-site property managers, including how a HandyTrac key control system can make all the difference.
1. Centralize Package Delivery Management
Package theft tends to spike during the holidays, but you can stay ahead of the curve with a little planning.
- Tip: Designate a secure area for package deliveries, such as a locked room or unused office space. Use a sign-in sheet or log system for residents to retrieve their packages, ensuring accountability.
- Bonus: Use email or text alerts to notify residents when packages arrive—this can often be done manually or with a simple spreadsheet.
2. Monitor Common Areas with Regular Walkthroughs
Even without a fancy surveillance system, regular patrols of common areas can significantly improve security.
- Tip: Assign staff to perform walkthroughs of parking lots, mailrooms, fitness centers, and laundry rooms at various times of the day. Look for any suspicious behavior or unsecured doors and address them immediately.
- Pro Tip: Keep a clipboard or logbook handy to document each walkthrough, ensuring a consistent routine and creating a record of activity.
3. Implement a Key Control System
Lost keys or unauthorized access to units are some of the biggest security risks for multifamily properties. A reliable key control system is essential for managing who has access to resident units.
- Solution: HandyTrac’s key control systems make it easy to secure and track your community’s keys. With features like automated reporting and real-time access logs, you’ll eliminate the guesswork and reduce the risk of liability. No extra staff or major setup is required—just a commitment to using the system effectively.
4. Improve Lighting Without Upgrades
Good lighting is a proven deterrent to crime, but you don’t have to install new fixtures to make a difference.
- Tip: Check all existing lights to ensure they’re working and replace any burnt-out bulbs immediately. If certain areas still feel dim, consider temporarily adding inexpensive, battery-powered motion sensor lights.
- Pro Tip: Use holiday string lights in walkways or entry areas to add festive charm while subtly enhancing visibility.
5. Increase Resident Awareness
Engaging your residents in the community’s safety is one of the easiest ways to improve security without spending a dime.
- Tip: Create and distribute a holiday safety checklist. Include reminders like locking doors and windows, collecting packages promptly, and reporting any suspicious activity. Post the checklist in high-traffic areas, such as mailrooms or elevators.
- Pro Tip: Host a brief, casual holiday safety meeting or Q&A in the leasing office to answer resident questions and reinforce key points.
6. Prepare for Emergencies with a Communication Plan
Unexpected weather, power outages, or other emergencies are more stressful during the holidays, but a clear plan can ease the burden.
- Tip: Make sure all staff members know their roles in an emergency, and have contact information readily available for key personnel, residents, and local authorities. Use text or email notifications to quickly inform residents about issues or updates.
- Pro Tip: Test your plan with a quick run-through to identify any gaps before you need it.
The Best Holiday Gift? A Secure Community
Keeping your multifamily property safe during the holidays doesn’t have to break the bank. By implementing these low-cost, high-impact strategies—and investing in a key control system like HandyTrac—you can protect your community and give your residents the gift of peace of mind.
Ready to simplify and secure your key management? Contact HandyTrac today to learn how we can help your community stay safe and organized this holiday season.
