Technology is making life in apartments easier and more convenient for landlords, onsite managers and tenants. Smart technology is one way this is happening. Technological solutions are quickly replacing less convenient human-based solutions for issues ranging from entry locks, to how you receive a package, or perhaps letting your friends inside the building for a visit.
Locking Up with Ease
A variety of different types of smart locks are available for apartment buildings. While for some renters there is a sense that these types of locks are less secure or prone to error versus traditional locks, there has been a growing demand for them. Some of these locks can be opened with a phone, card or key fob while others can be opened with a PIN. They may use wireless or Bluetooth technology, and some even come with backup keys for people who are worried about being locked out entirely.
The Efficiency of Package Lockers
Receiving packages can be a frustrating task for people who aren’t home all day, or are unable to get them delivered to their workplace. Packages run the risk of being left out in vulnerable areas, or perhaps an onsite manager may be stuck collecting and holding packages daily for his tenants. Package lockers make delivery both easy and secure. The delivery person can scan the information on the package and leave it in an appropriately sized locker. Later, the intended recipient can use a phone or a PIN to open the locker and retrieve the package. Easy enough.
In Control of Accessing
Secure units with a buzzer to let guests in can be another frustrating element of apartment living. Ideally, people can be buzzed in from the apartment although this still requires tenants to stop what they are doing and respond to the buzzer. Worse, in some cases, tenants have to leave their apartment entirely and let the visitor in manually. Smart access control links access to tenants’ phones so there is no need for them to stop what they are doing when a visitor drops by.
Amenities
There are many other so-called smart amenities that are increasingly available in apartments. Many elements of apartment living can be automated, such as automatic lighting in and around common areas for more security. Doors may be set to lock automatically at night, and thermostats may be installed that automatically adjust the temperature of the unit. In addition to package delivery, these types of apartments may offer other types of connectivity as well, such as easy access to ridesharing services. Tenants who have housekeepers may be able to let them in remotely using a phone.
The Advantages
It might seem as though the costs associated with this technology would be passed through to building tenants, but that is simply not the case. Smart apartments actually save building owners money, which translates to lower maintenance and association dues for their tenants. Everything from heating and cooling, down to the use of lighting and electricity, can be better managed. They can also make the job of apartment managers easier, freeing them up to focus on other ways to better serve tenants.
