Upgrading security systems is now being pitched not simply as an amenity, but as a strategic investment
Many multifamily rental properties are still relying on traditional security measures—brass keys, manual visitor logs and disjointed digital tools—that may seem functional but are quietly undermining efficiency and profit margins, according to a new report.
A key concern centres on rekeying costs: approximately 76 per cent of apartment buildings continue to use brass keys, with each reissue potentially costing between USD 80 and USD 150 per unit. For large developments, this adds up to a significant operational burden.
Property managers also face recurring expenses related to lost credentials and administrative delays. Every misplaced key or forgotten passcode requires manual intervention—it rubs away at staff time and resident satisfaction.
Industry experts argue that these outdated methods represent more than a temporary cost—they are a structural drag on operations and a threat to tenant trust. In the words of one specialist: “If we keep thinking of digital infrastructure as a ‘nice to have’, we’ll keep paying the price in other ways.”
Upgrading security systems is now being pitched not simply as an amenity, but as a strategic investment. Digital access control platforms promise faster rekeying, real-time access revocation and integrated guest check‑ins—all features that save time, reduce risk and enhance the resident experience, according to multifamily‑security vendors.
As operating costs continue to rise across the rental sector—driven by inflation, labour and energy—modern security technology is increasingly seen as a vital lever to maintain profit levels and competitive edge. The shift away from physical keys to unified digital systems is being framed as a necessary evolution for a streamlined, future‑ready rental market.
No longer should security be treated as a “fit‑and‑forget” expense, say industry insiders—but as a cornerstone of efficient, customer‑centric property management.
