Best Multifamily Doorbell for Apartments

Looking to upgrade your multifamily community’s doorbell game? 

According to the FBI and US Department of Justice's annual report, 66% of burglaries affect residential properties and over half of all burglary occur during daylight hours when residents are not home. 

Whether your residents are tired of “porch pirates” or just want to keep an extra eye on their front door, a top-of-the-line doorbell can provide the peace of mind and convenience your property needs. 

In this blog post, we’ll cover the types of multifamily doorbells + what to consider before implementing a solution for your residents. 

But, first things first… 

Do apartments have doorbells?

Absolutely! Apartments generally have doorbells, although the specific type may vary. 

In most apartment buildings, you'll find video intercom or buzzer systems installed as the main communication method between residents and visitors. These systems allow residents to visually identify and communicate with visitors before granting them access to the community.

By popular demand of modern residents, many newer apartment buildings are incorporating video doorbells into their infrastructure. 

Video doorbells serve as an additional layer of security, enabling residents to see and interact with visitors remotely through a smartphone or other connected device.

Types of multifamily doorbells 

As our world becomes increasingly connected and smart, even the most mundane of household items are not exempt from technological advancements. 

Doorbells, once simple devices that alerted homeowners to the presence of visitors, have evolved into sophisticated systems that offer advanced features such as video surveillance, remote access control, and more. 

In the multifamily housing sector, where security and convenience are top priorities, choosing the right type of doorbell can make a big difference in tenant satisfaction and property management efficiency.

Fortunately, with the wide range of multifamily doorbells available in the market today, property managers have plenty of options to choose from. 

Let’s look closer at the drawbacks and advantages of each popular option. 

Traditional Wired Doorbells

Traditional doorbells, known as wired doorbells, are typically associated with single-family homes and are characterized by a base station equipped with a visitor button. 

Advantages

• Cost-effective 
• Low maintenance 
• Straightforward user experience 
• Reliable and durable design 

Drawbacks

• Limited functionality compared to smart devices 
• Lack of remote access 
• Time-consuming and costly installation 
• Limited integration with other security devices 

Wireless Doorbells

Wireless doorbells function like video intercoms, relaying signals to an in-unit device upon activation by a visitor. 

Advantages

• Several chime options to choose from
• Amplified sound range options
• Easy installation process 
• Battery-powered or rechargeable 

Drawbacks

• Limited signal range 
• Battery dependence may result in downtime in the device 
• Limited integration with other smart devices 
• Lack of remote door unlocking 

Smart Doorbells

Smart doorbells, wired and wireless, stand out as the top choice for residents in multifamily communities, incorporating a sleek yet familiar design for guests.

Advantages

• Cameras with night vision and zoom functionalities
• Live view for real-time monitoring
• Mobile apps for remote access and control
• Motion sensors to detect movement
• Easy installation processes

Drawbacks 

• Reliance on a stable internet connection or power supply 
• Professional installation needed 
• Privacy concerns if the camera is not angled correctly

Can you use a Ring doorbell for multiple apartments?

A Ring doorbell is not designed to be used for multiple apartments within a multifamily building. 

Ring doorbells are primarily intended for single-family homes and are not structured to accommodate multiple units or residences within the same building. 

For multifamily properties,  consider specialized multifamily doorbell systems that are specifically designed for such environments. 

These systems offer features like centralized control, individual unit identification, and seamless communication between residents and visitors.

Choosing the Best Multifamily Doorbell 

With the rapid advancements in technology and the plethora of options available in the market, property managers need to carefully evaluate the specific needs and requirements of their buildings and tenants.

Consider the following factors:

• Unit Identification: Opt for a doorbell system that allows for clear identification of individual units. This could include customizable labels or numbers for each doorbell unit to easily differentiate between them.
• Video Quality: Choose a video doorbell with high-resolution video capabilities to ensure clear and detailed visuals of visitors. Look for features like HD or Full HD resolution and night vision for optimal performance in various lighting conditions.
• Mobile App Integration: Consider a video doorbell that offers a user-friendly mobile app, allowing residents to receive notifications, view live video feeds, and communicate with visitors remotely. App compatibility with both iOS and Android devices is desirable.
• Durability and Weather Resistance: Look for a video doorbell that is built to withstand different weather conditions and is durable enough to withstand frequent use.
• Installation and Maintenance: Consider the ease of installation and ongoing maintenance requirements of the video doorbell system. Some systems may require professional installation, while others offer a user-friendly DIY setup.

By taking these factors into account, property managers can ensure they choose the most suitable video doorbell solution that enhances security, convenience, and overall resident satisfaction.

Final Thoughts…

• According to the FBI and the US Department of Justice, residential properties are often targeted by burglaries, making security a crucial consideration.
• Smart doorbells are popular choices, providing features like video monitoring, remote access, and integration with mobile apps, but may require professional installation and a stable internet connection.
• Choosing the best multifamily doorbell involves considering factors such as unit identification, video quality, mobile app integration, durability, weather resistance, and ease of installation and maintenance.
• Specialized multifamily doorbell systems are recommended for multifamily properties, as they offer centralized control, individual unit identification, and seamless communication between residents and visitors.