Security Strategies for HOA and Property Managers
Homeowners Associations (HOAs) strive to create a safe community for their residents, implementing security and surveillance technologies is more common. Many residents are used to access control systems as well as security cameras in places like pools and common areas.
According to the National Association of Realtors, in 2023, 47% of HOAs have implemented some kind surveillance technology in their security strategy. This trend shows HOAs are advancing their efforts in providing safe neighborhoods for their residents.
Surveillance cameras are one of the more common components of an HOA security strategy. Four benefits security cameras give HOAs benefits include:
- Compliance and Monitoring. HOAs must adhere to governing rules and regulations and cameras can help provide footage that help these regulations are being followed. This might be investigating vandalism, ensuring pool capacity isn’t exceeded or documenting video evidence of any incidents.
- Dispute Resolution. Should disputes arise within the community or between neighbors, security cameras can be used to resolve these incidents.
- Increased Security. One of the primary reasons for installing security cameras is to deter crime and enhance security. Criminals and other intruders are less likely to risk being caught on camera in well-secured neighborhoods. Security cameras also provide video evidence to help investigators with any issues that happen.
- Peace of Mind. People choose to live in communities with HOAs for greater amenities and security. Security cameras provide residents with reassurance and peace of mind that their families, homes and property are safer and protected.
Considerations for HOA Camera Installation
Balancing security and surveillance equipment and the expectation of privacy can be tricky. Addressing resident concerns is important, especially if installing security cameras is a new security upgrade for an HOA. Consider these strategies:
- Communication: Transparent communication with HOA residents should include information on the policies, purpose and scope of any new camera installations.
- Compliance: Review compliance laws and regulations with your HOA board on a regular basis.
- Data Protection: Create and adhere to strict data protection policies that address data access, storage and data elimination. Appoint a data manager to ensure these policies to protect video data.
- Location Policy: Create and implement security camera location policy that limits camera location to common areas and where an assessment determines that security is a concern. Avoid private places and places that overlook private property.
How Legal are Cameras in HOAs?
Legality of installing security cameras varies within states and jurisdictions. HOAs should talk with their attorney or other legal counsel to make sure that any surveillance equipment they consider complies with local and state laws. Generally, areas where residents have a reasonable expectation of privacy are off-limits for HOA security cameras (for instance, overlooking backyards).
Security cameras in HOA communities are a powerful tool for safety, but can pose some challenges. HOAs should consider resident concerns and comply with legal considerations of the location jurisdiction. Communicating with residents is imperative as well as creating clear policies can help create secure neighborhoods in your HOA.
For help figuring out your HOA’s security needs, read our HOA Security Assessment.
Rapid International Offers Community Solutions
Safety, Community, Together. Rapid International provides security services, including staffed areas and patrol services, prioritizing neighborhood-based security in collaboration with your community. Rapid’s management has extensive experience in the security industry and in each city, we build partnerships with local law enforcement and emergency service agencies. Together with community members, we work to make people and communities safe and secure.
Please get in touch to learn about our community-level security program – we believe the strength of collaboration and partnership make neighborhoods safer for everyone. In Georgia, call: (706) 844-2586, in California call: (213) 364-1394 or email us at info@therapidway.com.
Technology trust is a good thing, but control is a better one.
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Photograph courtesy: Level Green Landscaping