Why It’s Easier Than Ever to Retrofit Access Control in Multi-Tenant Buildings

Do you have a multi-tenant building with an access control system that’s stuck in the past? You know the one—that older property still relying on mechanical keys or a limited legacy system. While you know a new system could do so much more, it feels like the learning curve would be steep or the budget to upgrade is out of reach. 

That couldn’t be further from the truth, actually. Retrofitting a building with a comprehensive access control solution like ASSA ABLOY ACCENTRA^® is both easy and cost effective. There’s no need to replace doors, drill into walls, or even deal with multiple suppliers in most cases. Plus your property managers will love the ability to manage credentials remotely and tenants will appreciate the simplicity of one credential.

Here are five ways that existing multi-tenant buildings can benefit from ASSA ABLOY ACCENTRA’s unified access control system that combines smart door hardware with digital permissions. 

What is a unified access control system?

A unified access control system is an all-in-one security solution that integrates smart locks and electronic keys. Occupants gain entry by using a card or fob, entering a PIN on a keypad, or multifactor authorization through a mobile app. Permissions are managed through a cloud-based platform. Tenant, vendor, and visitor access can be remotely tailored, updated, and revoked. 

1) Go Beyond Exterior Doors 

There was an era when electronic access control systems were only present on perimeter doors due to the investment cost. The volume of interior doors made it simply too expensive to secure them with anything beyond mechanical locks and keys. Thankfully, that’s no longer the case today. 

A unified system adds layers of access control throughout a multi-tenant building. It goes beyond the main door and individual units to cover amenity spaces like fitness centers, conference rooms, and parking as well. It can also be customized so select spaces are only accessible to staff, like supply closets and back offices. 

ASSA ABLOY ACCENTRA also partners with several ASSA ABLOY Group brands to offer specialized access control. These include DoorBird for video intercoms, Luxer One for package room lockers, and Control iD for garage and parking lot access. These integration capabilities ensure security can be tailored to each property’s specific features.

2) Tenants Deserve One Credential 

Tenants don’t want a jumble of keys. They want the sleek convenience of having just one fob, card, or code to gain entry. They appreciate the reassurance that this credential is more secure than a mechanical key that can be stolen and duplicated. They’ll also have greater confidence in a property’s security because they know access control is unique to them. 

3) Skip Costly Wiring and Door Replacements

There’s a misconception that all electronic systems required hard wiring. But ASSA ABLOY ACCENTRA is ideal for retrofits because its electronic locks are powered by batteries, so no wiring is necessary. Wireless repeaters aren’t required either since the system is completely offline. 

The locks are also designed for one-on-one replacements, including deadbolts. This is a significant cost savings because existing doors can be reused and don’t requirement any modifications. 

4) Embrace Mobile Credentials 

Property managers will sigh in relief when they no longer have to waste time dealing with physical keys. They want to ditch the hassle of replacing lost and stolen keys, managing inventory, and rekeying costs.

Mobile credentials can be managed virtually from the comfort of their work desk or even their phone. This is especially beneficial for property managers who oversee multiple locations. They don’t need to travel to the building to update access—they just log into the system.

 For example, when a tenant moves out, access can be denied with a few clicks. There’s also no need to replace the lock. A new credential can be assigned to the next occupant with the same ease. All the data is compiled in a central database for easy review, including audit trails.

5) One Vendor, One Platform

Because ASSA ABLOY ACCENTRA is a complete access control solution, building owners and property managers are spared the time and expense of having to source components from separate suppliers. It simplifies everything from evaluating products and site installation to software adoption and system upkeep.

Build your multi-tenant access control solution with us! Use our product selector tool to configure an access control system for any commercial property: 

https://www.accentra-assaabloy.com/en/support/configurators-and-support-tools/access-control-product-selector-multi-tenant