Do Condos Need Security?

July 30th, 2024



People that live in condos in Chico, CA generally believe that they are safer from crime than someone that lives in a detached home in a typical neighborhood. From a certain perspective, this is true. If you live on one of the higher floors of a condo, for example, you are far less likely to be targeted for theft and home invasion, than a detached home with ground level access.

However, just because you live on a higher floor in a condo in Chico, CA, does that mean that you’re completely safe? Alternatively, could your condo environment still benefit from a well-implemented security system? The answer to these questions is that a security system can still help you, and here the reasons why.

Unauthorized Entry

In theory, only residents and invited guests should be allowed entry into a condo, but in practice, this isn’t always the case. If a condo has no reception or security, for example, then anyone can enter into a building even if they aren’t “buzzed in,” by simply waiting for someone else to enter, and then following after, or claiming they were waiting for a friend to buzz them in, but aren’t getting a response.

Do not rely on other residents to properly observe entry and exit protocol. With security cameras correctly positioned, if something does happen and an unauthorized person enters the building, there is now a record and evidence that can be used. In many cases, the mere presence alone of security cameras is enough of a deterrent for people that don’t wish to be easily identified as they attempt to commit a crime.

Common Areas

There may be parts of a condo that are meant to be enjoyed by residents and guests, such as a gym, swimming pool, game/rec room, or outdoor party areas where people can host events like BBQs. Of course, these common areas have a lot of outside appeal for people beyond just the residents. It’s not unusual for these areas, especially if they are poorly secured, to be taken advantage of by people other than legitimate residents.

Access control systems are a good way to ensure that only intended residents and guests get to make use of these areas. A numerical keypad means residents are assigned individual codes they must enter, or a key card system can be implemented so that only authorized key cardholders can get in.

Lighting & Motion Detectors

In areas such as parking spaces, good lighting, sometimes even tied into motion detectors, can be another key security feature. A combination of lighting activated by motion detection, and security cameras in place, mean that automobiles are safer from theft.

This also means, however, that residents and guests are safer in parking areas, as they are well lit and security cameras, if present can capture everything, for more deterrence, safety, and evidence to help an investigation.

While it’s true that condo residents may not have to worry about a break-in through their window in Chico, CA, that doesn’t mean that security isn’t necessary. There are always ways to make the environment safer and more secure.

What Our Customers Say

"I had the Alibi system installed several years ago. It has functioned flawlessly. The image quality is exellent both night and day and in all weather conditions. I particularly like the replay (which can be set at various speeds) and zoom functions of the system. Tech support from Crimefreeliving has been excellent. I have received quick responses to questions, and timely home visits — as when I changed IP carriers and my Alibi system needed to be reset. I have recommended Crimefreeliving to several friends."

Rich

"As a small business owner here in Chico we definitely saw the need for video surveillance. After expressing our needs and concerns Tim did an excellent job getting us set up with the set up with the appropriate equipment. He really took the time to address our concerns in a very friendly, professional and knowledgeable manner. I highly recommend Tim for all of your business and residential video surveillance needs."

Ron H., Owner/Auto Doctor

"I have to say I love having my security cameras at my home. Tim Truby did a wonderful job of installing the five cameras. He is very neat and cleaned everything up after the installation. He explained to me how to operate the monitor, my phone and IPad. However, I have had to call Tim because I'm not tech savvy and forget what he has told me. He usually just helps me over the phone and then all is well. I'm 80 years old and enjoy the comfort of knowing I have these security cameras."

Gloria

"Tim Truby designed and installed a 32 camera system for us here at the Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District. We had received several other quotes from security system vendors, but Tim’s quote was the least expensive. Tim also installed the system quickly and has always been available when we needed him. We are very happy with our security camera system and we can highly recommend Tim Truby for all of your surveillance system needs."

D. Weseman, Butte County Mosquito and Vector Control District

Crime Free Living updated our old video system with a new 16 Channel HD Alibi Video Security System. The old system had been added onto by different installers which resulted in a cabling mess. There were cables that worked and cables that went nowhere. It was a mess. Tim sorted it all out and installed cameras that are very clear. He also installed a monitor for our cashiers to watch hidden areas, a monitor to watch the entry door, and a monitor that allows employees to watch the outside parking and gas pump area. All work was done on time and very professional! Will always recommend Tim and Crime Free Living.

S. AM PM Chico Arco Station

"I had Tim install an Alibi Video Security System at my residence and a couple business locations. The remote view option is invaluable to absentee owners or anyone who travels a lot. The clarity and quality of the cameras have allowed for viewing employee theft. The evidence provided from the HD video cameras was fantastic! Tim was professional and provided extra value from his law enforcement background."

J. Folsom Arco Station

"Tim, I want to thank you again for doing such a fantastic job on installing a wireless IP security camera system at our dream home. The extra time that you took to hide wires, and install a clean, professional system is much appreciated. I still can’t believe the clarity, quality, and ease of use of this new system. I wished that I would have met you before our original inferior system was installed by another company. Now, whether I am at home, or monitoring the system from around the world, I know that my home and family are safe and sound."

John M.

"In April of 2017, my husband and I made a phone call to Crime Free Living that turned out to be a smart and wise decision. Amazingly, in just a few hours, Tim installed four Dome Security Cameras, weatherproof enclosures, and hooked up into our home a 23" Full HD Widescreen Security Monitor. Even more than his professional expertise was the time spent with us in making sure that this system was working correctly and properly installed on our phones so that anywhere in our travels we can monitor our new home in Magalia."

Tieka and Don S.

"I have been using Crime Free Living for the last couple years ar work and at home and I really recommend this product. Tim is a very good service provider. If he can't figure it out, he's got good tech support with the system that he offers."

Gary D.

"I have known Tim for over 10 years. To date, Time with Crime Free Living has installed two separate surveillance systems for my company. With each system, Tim has listened to my needs and custom dsigned surveillance systems for my specific needs and within my budget. The equipment used is always state of the art, the workmanship is top notch, and Tim is the example of trustworthy. I would recommend him for any job."

Steve D., Down Range Indoor Training Center

images Certifications & Training

With 16 years of experience in law enforcement, Tim Truby, CEO, is fully certified in video surveillance and training.

  • Certified Advanced Crime Prevention Specialist
  • Academy Instructor Certification
  • California POST Certification in Specialized Surveillance Equipment
  • California POST Certification in Basic Crime Prevention
    • Advanced Crime Prevention through Environmental Design
    • Certified Alibi Security Dealer
    • Enhanced Risk and Threat Assessment (FEMA)
    • Incident Command System (100 & 200)
    • Certified Cognitech Video Forensic Investigator
    • Neighborhood Watch Toolkit Trainer
    • Computer Crimes/Investigations
    • Domestic Crisis for Crisis Negotiators
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