Common Security Mistakes Made by Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and How to Avoid Them
Homeowners associations (HOAs) and Condo Associations have grown in popularity over the years. According to a study by the Community Associations Institute, 66.7 million Americans were members of an HOA in 2015, which equates to 20% of the population. As their numbers increase, however, so do the risks associated with managing them, especially when it comes to security. In fact, with 70% of HOAs being managed by elected volunteers rather than professional security experts, many HOA security systems fall short. Here are four of the most common security mistakes made by HOAs and tips for improving them.
1. Neglecting to Conduct a Comprehensive Security Review
One of the biggest mistakes HOAs make is failing to conduct a security review. Without identifying potential vulnerabilities, it’s impossible to put effective security measures in place. This initial step is crucial for ensuring the safety of residents and their property.
A thorough security review should take into account the location and size of the HOA. For instance, high-rise communities or those that span large areas may require the expertise of a professional security provider. Ideally, a security review should be done annually, but every three years at a minimum. If the HOA is located in a high-crime area, reviews may need to happen as often as every six months. Many security companies offer free reviews for their clients, so it’s worth checking if your provider offers this service.
2. Implementing Inadequate Security Measures
Taking the wrong security measures is another common issue. After a crime or security scare, it’s easy to panic and implement measures that may make residents feel safer but don’t effectively address the root cause of the problem. For example, hiring security guards might seem like a good idea, but they can only provide protection in the areas they are stationed, leaving other parts of the property vulnerable.
A better approach is to assess where human intervention is truly needed and where technology can offer a solution. Guards are best suited for situations that require immediate human action, while technology, such as surveillance cameras and alarm systems, can handle routine security monitoring. It’s important to ensure that the equipment used is up to the task. Low-quality cameras, for example, might not capture key details such as facial features or license plate numbers in low light. Opt for high-definition cameras that provide clear images even in dim conditions.
3. Allowing Landscaping to Provide Concealment for Criminals
Landscaping can play a significant role in enhancing or hindering HOA security. While many HOAs focus on providing adequate lighting, they often overlook the potential for landscaping to provide cover for burglars. Bushes, hedges, and overgrown trees can provide criminals with places to hide, making it easier for them to approach undetected.
To eliminate these concealment opportunities, make sure landscaping is kept neat and strategic. Consider planting thorny bushes or other barriers around key areas like entrances, exits, parking lots, and property boundaries. Keep shrubbery low and narrow, and ensure tree canopies are trimmed to allow clear sightlines. This will help deter criminals by reducing the hiding spots available to them.
4. Forgetting to Perform Regular Maintenance Checks on Security Equipment
Even the most advanced security systems are useless if they’re not functioning properly. Unfortunately, many HOAs neglect to schedule routine maintenance checks for their security systems. This can lead to malfunctions or failures when they are needed most.
To avoid this mistake, assign responsibility for security equipment maintenance to an HOA manager or committee. Establish a regular schedule for inspecting gates, lights, motion detectors, alarms, cameras, and other security tools. It’s also important to create a system of accountability to ensure that these checks are carried out on time and that any issues are promptly addressed.
By avoiding these common security mistakes, HOAs can create safer, more secure environments for their residents. Regular security reviews, thoughtful security measures, well-maintained landscaping, and routine equipment checks will go a long way toward preventing crime and ensuring peace of mind for everyone in the community.
