Installing commercial security systems in newly constructed buildings is a pretty straightforward process. The wiring for access control systems and video surveillance can be run at the same time as electric wiring for a seamless installation and is minimally invasive. Commercial properties that are already built require more invasive installation techniques like cutting into drywall or concrete walls for wiring access panels or camera systems. But what about modern security measures for historic properties? Many government buildings, educational institutions, and hotels across the country are considered historic, and even several hospitals still operate in historic buildings.
State Guidelines for Historic Properties
Every state has different guidelines for determining whether a property is deemed “historic.”
Florida defines a historic building as a building or structure that is either individually listed in the National Register of Historic Places or is a contributing property in a National Register of Historic Places listed district.
Georgia defines historic properties as any structure, site, or work of art deemed worthy of preservation because it is one of the few remaining examples of a past architectural style or is associated with an event or person of historical or cultural significance to the state.
Tennessee defines historic buildings as any building or structure listed in the State or National Register of Historic Places or designated as historic under state designation law or survey.
To have a property listed in the National Register of Historic Places, however, they all have one requirement in common—the property must be at least 50 years old and retain as much of its original integrity as possible. The latter can present a problem when it comes to protecting said property.
Modern Security Solutions Without Sacrificing Historical Building Integrity
Conserving the integrity of your historic commercial building is the number one priority when making any changes or additions to the property. Ensuring your property is secure can help keep it protected as well. Thanks to modern technology, drilling or cutting holes into walls is not always necessary to run a top-of-the-line commercial security system.
Access control systems integrated with the Internet of Things (IoT) allow electronic devices to communicate wirelessly using an existing Internet connection. Your historic property, whether it was built in 1950 or 1850, could be retrofitted with high-tech IoT security access solutions like:
- IP Video Surveillance
- IP Intercom Systems
- Proximity/Smart Card Access
- Biometric Systems
Maintenance and Repair Services You Can Trust
Yesterday’s buildings can have problems that require modern security measures, and Guardian Access Solutions can solve them. Whether your historic property needs an entirely new security system or has woefully inadequate and outdated access controls, we will gladly provide service and maintenance you can trust.
Guardian Access Solutions handles more than 15,000 service calls every year and has over thirty years of combined experience servicing, maintaining, and repairing commercial security equipment. If you’re in Georgia, Florida, or Tennessee and need a new commercial security system or help with your existing equipment, give us a call.
