We give a lot of attention to condo software because we know how transformative it can be for condo communities. But, we want to use this article to recognize some of the leading condominium hardware.
Like software, condo hardware simultaneously reduces workloads for staff and elevates the resident experience. The busier the condo, the more essential hardware becomes.
Often, hardware works collaboratively with condo software to automate or improve processes.
Some good examples of popular condo hardware include parcel locker systems, intercom systems, license plate readers, key lockers and display screens.
Below, we will look at some of the most impactful hardware solutions available to condo communities just like yours.
Must-have condo hardware
- IP intercom/access control
- Parcel lockers
- Security cameras
- Display screens
- Energy-conscious controls
Must-have condo hardware
| Hardware | Leading solutions | Key features |
| IP intercom/access control | BAS-IP | Video calling, mobile app, open API |
| Parcel lockers | Luxer One, Parcel Pending, Parcel Port, Snaile | Secure lockers, resident notifications |
| Security cameras | Hikvision | Easy installation, cloud recording |
| Display screens | Vertical City, Pattison Outdoor | Compatible with software, easy way to share information with those who don’t check email |
| Energy-conscious controls | Honeywell | Optimizes lighting and temperature, reduces energy costs |
1. IP intercom/access control
An IP (Internet Protocol) intercom is an internet-connected device that shares audio and video between two parties. But modern IP intercoms used in condominiums (and other buildings) also connect to the access control system, facilitating property access.
In other words, IP intercoms allow guests to contact a resident, the resident can speak to and possibly see the guest, and if they want to let that guest in, they can press a button on their phone to unlock the secured front door.
In the past, terminals had to be installed in residents’ units and required lots of wiring throughout the building. But today, IP intercom terminals are wireless, meaning installation is much easier.
IP intercoms increase security while alleviating the front desk of this responsibility. It also improves the visitor experience, allowing delivery personnel to get in and out of the building quickly.
We recommend
BAS-IP. Since its establishment in 2008, BAS-IP has consistently prioritized product design, ease of use, and optimal performance of its devices.
BAS-IP now offers some of the most advanced and groundbreaking IP intercom solutions available in the marketplace today. Products can be customized to meet the needs of your community, and its open API system allows for seamless software integrations.
Speaking of integrations, BAS-IP integrates with Condo Control to create a single source of truth for resident data, eliminating time-consuming duplicate data entry.
Administrators can easily add, delete, and update resident records. These changes are automatically transferred to the intercom system’s smart directory via the BAS-IP Link management platform, which acts as the middleware. BAS-IP Link also manages the calling process, ensuring reliable communication.
Guests benefit from this collaboration, too. Instead of having to dial unit numbers, visitors scroll through an alphabetized smart directory, and tap the name of the person they want to reach. This process provides a more intuitive and user-centric approach.
2. Parcel lockers
Condo buildings can receive anywhere from 50 to over 200 parcels every day! If your community doesn’t have a parcel locker system, there will be problems.
Firstly, packages are far more insecure when they’re left in a heap behind the front desk. When concierge needs to leave, anyone could pass by a take one.
Then there’s the matter of labour hours. Concierge might spend as much as 1/3 of their day logging packages, notifying recipients and retrieving items from the storage room (if there is one).
Sometimes a recipient is not notified, leaving them to wonder what happened to their items. Other times, they forget about it, and a box sits in storage for weeks, taking up valuable real estate.
Parcel lockers can address all of these problems. Couriers place individual boxes and envelopes in the locker compartments instead of unloading them at the front desk.
Concierge gets several hours back so they can focus on providing better service to residents, and recipients are notified as soon as the parcel is registered in the system.
We recommend
Luxer One, Parcel Pending, Parcel Port and Snaile are all strong choices. These systems are reliable and are loved by condo communities.
Residents may be notified via email or text, depending on the setup and their preferences, and can enter a unique code or scan a barcode for contactless retrieval.
These hardware systems also integrate with your favourite condo management software. When used together, admins only have to manage one resident list for both solutions.
3. Security cameras
Condominium residents are entitled to a reasonable expectation of privacy. As such, condominiums must carefully consider the purpose and scope of view when installing security cameras.
That being said, most residents would prefer to have them in common areas like elevators and hallways.
The safety and security benefits of installing surveillance cameras are twofold:
- Cameras are a crime deterrent. A thief might think twice about stealing a vehicle, bike or package if they know cameras are capturing their activity
- Cameras can assist in identifying a perpetrator, thus resolving an issue or incident
Security camera systems are becoming more affordable and more advanced. Some even have temperature or noise detection capabilities. Alerts are sent out to the right people, right away, so they can address problems before they become exponentially worse.
Cloud storage is also replacing bulky on-site servers. Video data is transmitted to and stored in the cloud, providing several advantages in terms of accessibility, scalability, and security.
Cameras help staff monitor multiple areas at one time, making them valuable security tools.
We recommend
Hikvision. This company proudly serves condo communities using cutting-edge technologies. It has designed a strategic map to cover outdoor and indoor spaces. Their cameras have Various lens options, audio and alarm interfaces, and more.
Plus, their cameras work for old and new buildings. Hikvision’s video surveillance can be integrated with other systems like access control and intercoms for a comprehensive security solution.
4. Display screens
Display screens work. Whether they are installed in the corners of your elevators, or placed neatly in the lobby, residents will read them.
Display screens can be an excellent way to communicate with people who don’t have email or don’t check their emails.
When integrated with software, condos can use these screens to share event information, announcements, fire alarm testing, and more, on top of local news, weather, etc.
If it makes sense for your community, you can also create a source of recurring revenue by featuring ads approved by the hardware provider.
We recommend
Vertical City and Pattison Outdoor are both trusted industry leaders. These companies understand the effectiveness of these dynamic communication tools.
Their platforms, which integrate with condo management software, give building managers and condo boards the ability to post notices in real-time from any desktop or mobile device.
5. Energy-conscious controls
Green hardware is a wise investment for several reasons. Energy-conscious technology is almost always more cost-effective in the long run – and who doesn’t want to save money?!
It may also be a selling factor to prospective owners and tenants who proactively try to preserve natural resources.
Finally, energy-conscious controls are easier to customize, analyze and manage.
Some examples include smart thermostats and lighting.
With programmable schedules, remote temperature control, and energy usage insights, smart thermostats help reduce utility bills while maintaining an ideal indoor environment, day and night.
Smart lighting solutions offer customizable illumination options and energy-saving features for condo communities. Motion sensor lighting preserves energy when foot traffic is low, but ensures residents feel safe as soon as they step out the door or enter an amenity room.
We recommend
Honeywell has been delivering innovative solutions for over a hundred years. Now it is bringing a digital-first, outcome-based approach to the next generation of megatrends.
When it comes to residential comfort, Honeywell aims to create a future where buildings are good for the planet, and where technology works to simplify everyday life.
Choose from a collection of programmable light switch timers, WIFI thermostats, and more.
The takeaway
Condo hardware not only modernizes your condo community, but it also serves many important purposes. From elevating safety to improving the resident experience, adopting some of this hardware is beneficial for property managers, board members, and residents.
- Improved operational efficiencies through centralized management, automation and remote access
- Positive change to resident satisfaction by integrating solutions that consider their wants and needs
- Comprehensive communication solutions make it easier to share real-time news and information
- Energy and cost savings achieved by optimizing temperatures and lighting
- Smart access control adds an additional layer of security without requiring staff to perform additional work. Integrated surveillance deters theft and vandalism
