Case Study: Who Needs Guards?

For years, one Southwest Florida community association relied on a manned guard service at their front gate — a familiar but expensive solution. The annual cost exceeded $200,000, and while the guards provided a visible presence, the process was slow, inconsistent, and prone to human error.

Determined to modernize their approach and regain control of their budget, the board partnered with Key Security Services to implement LiftMaster’s MyQ Community platform — a smart, unmanned gate system that gives residents the power to manage their own guest access.

From Guardhouse to Gate App — A Smoother Way In

The LiftMaster MyQ system allows homeowners to issue secure guest passes directly from their smartphones. Whether it’s family visiting for the weekend, a contractor coming by, or the weekly cleaning crew, residents can send access directly to the guest’s phone. This streamlined approach removed long wait times at the gate and eliminated the need for 24/7 guard coverage — saving the association over $200,000 annually.

“It’s hard to overstate what this has done for our budget. But it’s not just about the savings — we actually have more control and visibility now than we ever did with a guard. The MyQ backend is a dream compared to what we were using before. It’s clean, simple, and we can see everything we need in real time.” -Lynn H. - CAM

Cleaner, Simpler Platform = Greater Control

Behind the scenes, the MyQ platform gives association managers a clean and intuitive dashboard to view access logs, manage permissions, and troubleshoot issues without relying on a third party.

A Solutions for Real-World Gate Woes

Gates in Florida communities face a unique set of challenges:

• Delivery trucks clipping arms

• Visitors tailgating in behind others

• Lightning strikes disabling components

• Even rats chewing through wiring

Before, these issues often led to long delays or expensive service calls. With Key Security Services supporting the MyQ system, those headaches are handled swiftly and professionally.

“The gates with the previous company seemed to be down more than they worked. Since changing to Key we have had fewer problems and repairs are taken care of quickly. Key Security is always quick, professional, and they keep us in the loop. ” - Ben A., Head of maintenance

A Thoughtful Transition, Powered by People

Making the move from manned gates to app-based access wasn’t as simple as flipping a switch. Homeowners needed to download and learn to use the app, staff needed training, and the board had to prepare for pushback.

That’s where Key Security Services went above and beyond — not only managing the technical implementation, but also hosting in-person town hall meetings to help residents install and understand the system.

“They didn’t just install a system and walk away — they walked with us through the entire process. They educated our residents, trained our staff, and made sure no one was left behind.” - Earl P., BOD

Three Years Later: Big Savings, Bigger Satisfaction

It’s been three years since the guards stepped away and the app took over. The community hasn’t looked back. Access is faster, more reliable, and fully trackable. Vendor traffic is better managed. And the budget now has room for other important improvements.

“This system paid for itself quickly — and we hear nothing but good things from our residents.”— Board of directors member

What once seemed like a risky shift has become a shining example of what happens when technology, planning, and people come together — delivering real peace of mind and powerful results.Key Security Services turned a daunting transition into a smooth, successful modernization. With clear communication, responsive service, and forward-thinking solutions, they didn’t just replace a guard — they built a better way in.