Replacing Your Apartment Call Box with Cloud-based Access Control Systems
Apartment call boxes were once the go-to solution for multifamily building access because they give residents a way to communicate with visitors and grant them entry from their unit. But in a time when technology is part of everyday life, the traditional call box has become outdated. For property managers and owners who need flexible and efficient solutions to keep their properties accessible, the time has come to consider upgrading to a cloud-based access control system.
In this post, we take a closer look at why apartment call boxes no longer meet the needs of modern communities — and what today’s technology can offer instead.
Why Traditional Apartment Call Boxes Are Outdated
Call boxes have been around for decades, and their design hasn’t changed much. The setup is simple: Visitors punch in a code to call a resident, who can then buzz them in. While this system has served its purpose, it’s based on older technology that doesn’t align with what today’s tech-savvy residents expect.
Traditional call boxes only handle voice calls in real time, often with no video option. Without a visual, residents are left guessing who’s at the door, which isn’t ideal for security. Since call boxes rely on phone lines and hardwired connections, they can be expensive and tricky to maintain. Not to mention, damaged lines or worn-out parts mean higher repair costs and potential downtimes.
The Advantages of Cloud-Based Access Control Systems
Today’s cloud-based access control systems have advanced features that offer solutions to nearly all of the above limitations, making them an ideal replacement for call boxes. Here are some of the main benefits of upgrading to a modern system.
1. Access from anywhere
With a cloud-based access control system, property managers and residents can control building access from anywhere using a smartphone. Instead of having to be on-site to address access issues, property managers can unlock doors, view logs, and even revoke access if necessary—all from an app. This is especially helpful in emergencies when a quick response is required.
For residents, this flexibility means they can grant access to visitors, deliveries, or services even if they’re not home. Imagine a resident receiving an unexpected delivery while at work — they can quickly unlock the door remotely, ensuring their package is safely delivered to their unit or package room.
2. Audit trails and access logs
One of the top features of cloud-based systems is their ability to create date- and time-stamped logs of every access events. Property managers can review who enters and at what time, creating an audit trail for added security.
These logs also help property managers enforce policies. For example, if certain doors are only meant to be accessed by maintenance staff, a manager can review logs to ensure that access is being used as intended and that no unauthorized entries are taking place.
3. Seamless integration with smartphones
In a world where most residents rely on smartphones for their daily activities, access control systems are more popular than ever, thanks to their integrations with mobile technology. With a cloud-based system, residents no longer have to rely on physical keys or fobs; instead, they can use their smartphones to access the building. This reduces the risk of lost keys, simplifies the move-in/move-out process, and even cuts down on costs associated with rekeying or replacing fobs.
Additionally, smartphone integration allows for features like digital visitor passes. Residents can send temporary access codes to friends or family on their phones and eliminate the need to meet guests at the call box or rely on staff to manage access.
4. Enhanced security with real-time monitoring
Cloud-based access control systems offer real-time monitoring features that allow property managers to keep an eye on building access. Alerts can be set up to notify managers of unusual activity, such as forced entries or repeated failed access attempts, ensuring they’re aware of potential security issues as soon as they arise.
However, this kind of proactive security is not possible with traditional call boxes. Instead of relying on in-person walk-throughs, property managers have real-time information at their fingertips, enabling them to address issues quickly and keep the property secure.
5. Easy scalability and maintenance
Unlike call boxes, which can be complex to expand or upgrade, cloud-based access control systems are scalable and easy to maintain. As new residents move in, property managers can quickly add users without the need for additional hardware or extensive reprogramming. What’s more, if a resident loses their credential or moves out, their access can be deactivated from the online dashboard.
Since cloud-based systems typically run on remote servers, updates and maintenance are handled remotely without disrupting building operations. This not only reduces maintenance costs but also ensures that systems are always running on the latest versions of the software.
Considerations Before Switching
Of course, switching from an apartment call box to a cloud-based system could involve an upfront investment of time and money. Property managers should evaluate different options to find a system that fits their budget and meets their specific needs. Additionally, it’s essential to choose a reputable vendor that offers reliable support and software updates to ensure long-term solutions.
The switch to cloud-based access control can seem daunting at first, but the benefits far outweigh the initial costs. By enhancing security, improving resident convenience, and streamlining property management tasks, cloud-based access control systems are becoming a widespread replacement for apartment call boxes.
