Selecting the correct access control platform is the most important first step when considering a system upgrade for your community. There are dozens of platforms available, each offering different features, pricing models, and user experiences. When working with a community association, I typically start by asking the following questions.

In this series we will showcase moments in history where decisions led to unintended consequences. Even though this series does not focus on security related items, it reveals that even the most well intentioned people can lead a community astray. Key Security Services understand the unique needs of community associations and businesses in southwest Florida and can help guide your property towards solutions that work and avoid your association being the next Great Moment in U

It’s a common concern in Florida communities: a camera goes up near the pool or clubhouse, and residents start asking—Is that legal? Can they record me on my porch or even through my windows? When it comes to community association cameras, especially those placed near homes, the line between security and privacy can feel blurry.

For a 380-unit beachfront condominium, the combination of short-term rentals and aging infrastructure was creating a perfect storm. Nearly every unit was owned by investors and rented nightly through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. With a constant stream of unfamiliar guests came a growing list of security issues.

For one community association in Southwest Florida, late-night vandalism had become a costly and frustrating routine. Their pool deck, fitness center, and clubhouse were being misused after hours — furniture tossed in the pool, equipment damaged, and common areas left trashed. The worst part? They had cameras. And those cameras even captured the events. But they still couldn’t figure out who did it.

A prominent Southwest Florida community association needed a better way to secure its shared amenities — including the pool, bathrooms, and fitness center. Their old system relied on standard keys, which were easy to lose, difficult to track, and could be easily duplicated at stores like Walmart and Lowe’s. Looking for a smarter, safer solution, they turned to Key Security Services , trusted experts in community security for over 17 years. The team proposed a complete upgrade