Are apartment access gates effective?

At first glance, the security gates that guard the entrances to many apartment complexes seem great. The idea that only those with the proper code or key fob can access the property's inner amenities is comforting.

However, don't be deceived. Though the security offered by these apparatuses is legitimate, an access gate should not be the only thing you use to safeguard your property and your person while you live in a gated complex.

Issues with Apartment Access Gates

There are several common issues that confront apartment access gates on a regular basis. Here are some of the biggest challenges you'll face:

• They break while open. The biggest problem is when the gate gets broken while it is in the open position. At that point, the gate may as well not even exist. Worse, it might make the property seem like an untapped opportunity for those wishing to steal or do harm.

• They break while closed. It's no longer a gate, but a wall with no doors. It either keeps you inside when you want to leave, or keeps you out when you want to go home. Usually, apartment staff solves this issue by instituting the first problem - i.e. they wrench it open and leave it that way.

• People tailgate. Even though the sign says only one car may enter at a time, it's rarely true. In the end, gatemakers aren't going to pit their wrought-iron bars against thousands of pounds of car and horsepower. So, anyone who is willing to drive slightly aggressively can make their way onto the property.

• Visitor access is tricky. Of course, you might find yourself telling visitors to tailgate if the visitor system is dodgy. The gates are supposed to call your phone and allow you to let in your guests, but it doesn't always work.

• They may make everything cost more. Apartment complexes don't offer gated access out of the goodness of their hearts. There may be additional fees or costs added onto your monthly tab or, at the very least, you may be financially responsible to keep track of a key fob - and you won't believe how much the complex will say they cost.

Make Access Gates a Part of a Larger Plan

Now, with all of those issues, am I saying that access gates aren't worth it?

No. Access gates are a great first line of defense when it comes to your security at an apartment complex. There's no denying that it's better to have a fenced-off property than not.

However, it's important to keep gates in the right context and perspective. Here are some things you should also do to supplement the security that access gates provide:

• Always lock your car.

• Never leave valuables in plain sight in your car.

• Always lock your apartment when you leave.

• Know the name and number of the courtesy officer (if there is one).

• Use the home security alarm (if one is available).

• Practice situational awareness.
  
  

The last bullet is the most important. Although we live our private lives at apartments, they are not fully private locations the way that houses are. So, as often as you can, maintain a level of caution and awareness when you're at your apartment - especially if you're beyond the locked doors of your unit.

Be safe out there!