What You Need to Know Before Installing Intercom for Apartment Buildings in Chicago?
Intercom systems have become essential in modern apartment buildings, offering convenience, security, and peace of mind to both residents and property managers. In Chicago, a city with diverse and growing housing needs, intercom systems play a critical role in maintaining secure and efficient entry for tenants, guests, and service providers. However, when installing an intercom system in Chicago, it’s essential to understand the legal requirements and best practices for securing an apartment building.
What is the Intercom Law in Chicago?
In Chicago, intercom systems are more than just a luxury; they are a requirement for certain types of buildings. According to Chicago’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO), buildings with more than four units must provide an intercom or buzzer system that allows residents to communicate with and grant access to visitors. This law is designed to ensure that tenants have a safe and effective way to control who enters the building.
The law states that the intercom system must be functional and maintained regularly. If a system fails, landlords must repair it in a timely manner to ensure that the building complies with local ordinances. Failure to maintain an operable intercom system can result in fines and penalties for landlords, and tenants may have legal recourse to demand repairs.
For multi-unit apartment buildings, especially those located in high-density urban areas like downtown Chicago, installing a reliable and compliant intercom system is essential for maintaining building security while meeting legal obligations.
How To Secure an Apartment Building with an Intercom System in Chicago?
Intercom systems are a key component of building security, especially in cities like Chicago, where safety is a top priority for both tenants and property managers. When implementing an intercom system in your apartment building, there are several key features and best practices to consider for enhanced security.
1. Choose a Video Intercom System
One of the most effective ways to secure an apartment building is by choosing a video intercom system. Unlike traditional audio-only systems, video intercoms allow residents to see who is at the door before granting access. In a city as busy as Chicago, this additional layer of security helps residents verify the identity of visitors, reducing the risk of unauthorized individuals entering the building.
Video intercom systems can be particularly beneficial in larger apartment complexes where foot traffic is frequent, making it easier for residents to monitor access without opening the door for strangers.
2. Integrate Keyless Entry
Integrating keyless entry with your intercom system can further enhance security. With a keyless entry system, residents and authorized personnel can gain access to the building using smartphone apps, key fobs, or secure entry codes. This eliminates the need for physical keys, which can be lost, copied, or stolen, posing a security risk. In Chicago, where residents may have busy lifestyles, keyless entry systems are a convenient and secure option for managing access.
Additionally, keyless entry systems can allow property managers to grant temporary access to service providers, delivery personnel, or visitors, making it easier to manage access without compromising building security.
Use Remote Access Control
In a technologically advanced city like Chicago, intercom systems with remote access capabilities are becoming increasingly popular. Remote access allows property managers or residents to monitor and control entry from a distance, using smartphone apps or web-based platforms. This feature is particularly useful for residents who may be out of the apartment when a visitor or service provider arrives. Remote access control enables them to unlock the door from anywhere, ensuring they never miss a delivery or guest.
For property managers, remote access offers an additional layer of control, as they can manage building access from their offices or mobile devices, enhancing the overall security of the building.
To ensure the intercom system remains secure, it’s important to conduct regular maintenance and software updates. As technology evolves, security vulnerabilities may be discovered, and system manufacturers often release updates to address these concerns. By keeping the intercom system updated and properly maintained, property managers can ensure that their building remains secure against the latest threats.