What happens to my community's security when power fails?

Florida's gulf coast has more lighting strikes than area other area IN THE WORLD! Add hurricanes to the mix and you can be assured your community will lose power at some point for a few minutes or even a few days. So what happens when the power goes out?

Vehicle Gates:

Most vehicle gates have internal batteries to help the gates operate when power fails. For most communities we suggest using this battery power to simply open the gates and have the system close the gates again when power is restored (and the batteries are fully charged). However, even though the gates CAN behave this way, by default they do not. Have your gate service company confirm that the gates will open and have your batteries tested at least twice a year. Additionally, we suggest testing the system by turning off the breaker to the gates and confirming they open as expected.

Battery Powered Electronic Access:

Some buildings use battery powered locks on their doors and common areas. While these locks tend to be less dependable, require more maintenance, and are harder to program, they do offer one clear advantage-they are unaffected by power outages. You may not be able to update the information on the locks if they require WiFi for updates, but otherwise the locks should continue to operate as they always have.

Wired Electronic Access:

First, whenever possible we recommend having the access control system on a backup generator. This ensures the building remains secured and accessible through outages.

Second, we suggest having the access control system on a simple battery backup (UPS). This will keep the system running for those short (less than 10 minutes) blip in power and protect electronics from brown outs.

But at some point both of these systems will run out and your locks will lose power-now what? Well, it depends on how the system was designed. Many locks can be wired to remain locked when power fails or to simply unlock when power fails. Both options have advantages.

Fail Locked (aka Fail Secure): This keeps your building secure from unwanted visitors, keeps homeowners out if the building is shut down due to the power failure, and keeps the doors closed during windy hurricanes. Offers better security.

Fail Unlocked (aka Fail Safe): This ensure that homeowners are not locked out of important or necessary areas. Offers more convenience.

In the end, how you want your community to function in a power outage is up to the association, but it is important to understand what will happen and to be prepared for the consequences.

---

Key Powell is a second-generation security professional with over three decades of hands-on experience in locksmithing, access control, vehicle gates, and surveillance systems. As the owner of Key Security Services, he has worked closely with community association managers, boards, and property owners throughout Southwest Florida. Key is also a certified CEU instructor and regularly teaches security-focused courses designed to help associations make informed, responsible decisions.

This content reflects real-world experience working with Florida statutes, HOA/COA governing documents, Community Association Managers, property managers, and best practices for community security.