Effective Elevator Access Control From RemoteLock

A modern apartment building interior featuring a stainless steel elevator, a staircase with a glass railing, and a secure entry door. This highlights the importance of seamless access control in multifamily properties, showcasing how RemoteLock enables centralized management of common areas and resident access.

Elevators are integral to many multifamily properties, but they’re often overlooked when property managers choose access control solutions. Without proper access control, they can become points of vulnerability, potentially compromising resident safety and property security. 

Implementing a robust elevator access control system from RemoteLock is essential for property managers aiming to improve the resident experience, streamline operations, and ensure a safe living environment.

Common Configurations of Elevator Access Control

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Elevator access control systems regulate who can access specific floors within a building, ensuring that only authorized individuals reach designated areas. This targeted approach to security is crucial in many multifamily settings, where different floors may house various amenities, residential units, or restricted zones.

Depending on a property’s security requirements and resident needs, elevator access control can be configured in several ways:

  1. Public Elevator with Open Access
    In this basic setup, anyone can call the elevator and access any floor without restrictions. This configuration suits buildings with low security needs or where all floors are open to the public.
  2. Public Elevator with Controlled Lobby Access
    Here, only authorized individuals — such as residents or staff — can call the elevator from the lobby using credentials like access codes, key cards, or fobs. Once inside, they can select any floor. This setup prevents unauthorized users from moving beyond the lobby.
  3. Private Elevator with Restricted Floor Access
    This advanced configuration requires users to present credentials both to call the elevator and to access specific floors. Implementing this setup necessitates installing access readers in both the lobby and inside each elevator cab. For instance:
    • Residents can access only their respective residential floors.
    • Access to shared amenities like gyms or pools is granted only to those with specific permissions.
    • Certain floors, such as maintenance areas or staff offices, are restricted exclusively to authorized personnel with the proper credentials.
  4. Time-Based Access Restrictions
    Ideal for properties with varying access needs throughout the day, this configuration allows open access during designated hours (e.g. business hours) and restricts it after hours. It offers flexibility to grant specific groups, like maintenance staff or residents, access during particular times while limiting others.

Advantages of Cloud-Based Elevator Access Control

Transitioning to a cloud-based elevator access control system offers multifaceted benefits:

  • Remote Management
    Property managers can grant or revoke access in real-time from any location with internet connectivity. This capability is invaluable during emergencies or unexpected situations requiring immediate action.
  • Enhanced Visitor and Vendor Oversight
    Through a centralized dashboard, managers can efficiently manage visitor access, ensuring that residents’ visitors can only reach authorized floors. This reduces the risk of unauthorized movement within the building.
  • Improved Security for Short-Term Rentals
    For multifamily properties that allow for short-term rentals, precise control over elevator access ensures that guests can access only their designated floors, maintaining the privacy and security of the rest of your residents.
  • Comprehensive Data Analytics
    Cloud-based systems provide detailed logs of elevator usage, offering insights into traffic patterns, peak usage times, and potential security concerns. These analytics aid in informed decision-making and proactive security measures.

Considerations for Implementing Elevator Access Control

When integrating an elevator access control system, property managers should keep the following in mind:

  • Collaboration with Elevator Manufacturers
    Ensure that the RemoteLock Access Control Kit is compatible with existing elevator models. Close coordination with elevator vendors is crucial to address technical specifications and integration requirements.
  • Comprehensive Coverage
    Address all potential access points, including stairwells, to prevent unauthorized movement between floors. Implementing access controls in stairwells ensures that security measures are not circumvented.
  • Compliance with Safety Regulations
    Ensure that the access control system complies with local building codes and safety regulations, particularly concerning emergency egress and accessibility standards.

Get Started With Elevator Control

Implementing a tailored elevator access control system is a strategic move for multifamily property managers aiming to bolster security, enhance operational efficiency, and provide residents with peace of mind

With RemoteLock’s broad hardware compatibility and robust access management, managers can ensure that elevator access aligns with the property’s unique security requirements and resident expectations.

Do you manage more than 30 doors or devices? Schedule time with our experts to get a custom quote.

RemoteLock

Universal Access Control

We provide cloud-based, access control software that empowers those in the multifamily, vacation rental, commercial and related industries to remotely manage and control access to any space from anywhere in the world.