Positives & Negatives of Various Entry Systems and Front Door Locks

Keeping a rental property safe and secure can be tricky especially if the property has a shared access, such as a HMO or a block of flats.
To improve a properties security a landlord needs to consider the type of entry system or front door lock. There are plenty of entry systems and door locks to pick from, so it’s wise that landlords do some research to decide which is best for their tenants.
It is worth discussing the options with the existing tenants and steer towards the one that they perceive as the easiest to use.

Entry Systems
A typical entry system has an alarm that requires a pass code to turn it on and off or something similar. Though these systems work, they may not be the maximum security you are looking for. Consider looking at other entry systems that add another line of defense to your home:

1. Keyless – For a tenants ease of use, keyless entry systems have become extremely popular.
- Pros

• Easy to use
• Convenient
• Less hassle
• Easy to install

- Cons

• Expensive
• Not the most secure
• Can forget the entry code
• Not best in the case of an emergency
• Costs a lot of money to replace remote
• May not work if power goes out

2. Video/intercom entry – Video and intercom entry systems use both video and voice to recognize that you are the homeowner and can safely open the door. It also allows others within the house to see that you are the true person who you say you are.
- Pros

• Secure
• Effortless
• Set limits as to who can open doors
• Newer technology

- Cons

1. Expensive
2. Electronic failure
3. May need to be professionally installed
4. More equipment used

3. Biometric entry – Biometric entry is extremely secure. From finger prints to iris scanners, it is very hard to bypass this shield of protection. No random burglar could get past this type of security unless it was purposefully broken.
- Pros

• Highly secure
• Dependable
• Modern technology
• Hard to break into

- Cons

• Expensive
• Requires work on homeowner’s end
• Needs to be updated

Door Locks
You may also want to consider getting rid of your traditional door lock for something more secure that cannot be “picked” or somehow made ineffective by a burglar.

1. Deadbolt – Deadbolts are great locks to use. They are locked from the inside as well as the outside.
- Pros

• Highest security
• Easy to install
• Can use with other locks
• Different kinds with more protection

- Cons

• Wear and tear
• Huge range of brands/types to select from
• Not suitable for a door surrounded by windows

2. Mortise Lock – A rectangular box that fits into a recess in the door from its edge. Also includes two faceplates that include the knobs and keyholes.
- Pros

• Locks from both sides
• Variety of sizes
• Hard to pick (very secure)
• Elegant feel and look to them

- Cons

• Wear and tear
• Have to install on your own

Remember, you want to keep your tenants and rental property safe and to do that you’ll need to look at entry systems as well as locks . Though there are many to choose from, consider your budget, how much security you’re looking for, and so on to narrow down your options. With an upgraded entry system and front door lock, the rental property will be as secure as ever.