How to Keep Your Manhattan Home Safe Inside and Out
So far this year, Manhattan robberies and burglaries are up versus 2022. According to the FBI, a burglary occurs every 26 seconds in the U.S. Top Hat Home Services works with select partners to provide New York City homeowners with peace of mind, installing the most advanced home security systems that integrate with your home’s other monitoring systems.
One of Top Hat’s vetted service providers is Intelli-Tec Security Services. We spoke with the company’s president, Carmine Pizzo, about the best ways to keep your family and your belongings safe.
Sound the Alarm
A recent study found that 83% of would-be burglars look for signs of an alarm, and more than half would skip the house if they found one. If that’s not enough of an incentive, most insurance companies offer discounts of up to 20% on home insurance when homeowners install a home monitoring system.
Many people opt for a Ring or other plug and play low budget option. These are crime deterrents, but the downside is low quality images, limited surveillance locations, plus the devices must be charged. Carmine recommends installing a higher-end system, with cameras inside and outside of the home, offering a crisper and more comprehensive view of activity. He typically installs cameras by the front door, the roof and in the backyard. These systems can be integrated with smoke, water sensor and heating/AC systems and controlled from your phone, computer, or tablet.
Throw Away the Key
Keyless entry locks are thought to be more secure than traditional locks. They are also easier to use for people with mobility or physical issues, like arthritis. Keyless entry systems allow access via an app, voice recognition, fingerprint, face, or fob. To let in the babysitter or other visitors, all you need to do is share the code instead of leaving a key under the mat. If you no longer want someone to gain access to your home, it’s cheaper to simply change the code instead of installing a new lock.
Many Manhattan clients are adding smart or electronic locks that include an intercom system. Even if it’s an older or landmarked Manhattan building with a dated security system, a custom plate is created to cover the old intercom, upgrading to a keyless entry system. Clients in older buildings favor this option since there’s no need to repair the building’s façade. These systems integrate seamlessly with other home automation equipment and services, giving control over the entry system from anywhere.
Carmine’s team uses Honeywell’s Total Connect Remote Services, allowing homeowners to arm and disarm security and safety systems from anywhere. You’ll receive an alert or access to a live video feed. When you’re away, not only can you control the security system, but the door can be unlocked remotely so a friend or property management company like Top Hat can be let in to assess and fix the situation.
Water, Water Everywhere
Water leaks are the leading cause of property damage. Fire and burglar systems are common in homes, but plumbing leaks, frozen pipes and flooding can be an even bigger threat. Water damage is not only expensive to fix, but if untreated can lead to mold or mildew. It’s also harder to sell a home that has water damage. Fortunately, there are easy solutions.
One way to get ahead of leaks is to install alarm water sensors (or water bugs) around the house. It has become more common to install a water sensor in Manhattan homes, especially since New York City faces increasing risk for stormwater flooding, based on a map released by the Adams administration. These sensors are integrated with your security system. The bugs can be placed anywhere where water damage might occur, including the basement, laundry room, bathroom, and kitchen. Once the sensors detect a leak, you or your property management company receive an alert.
To prevent damage from frozen pipes or plumbing leaks, Top Hat installs FloLogic or similar products, which detect any size water leak from the pipe where water enters your property. It also integrates with your alarm system, sending an alert to your property management company once water flow goes below your pre-determined “Home” or “Away” settings. Once a leak is detected, the water supply is automatically shut off. You’re alerted to the leak in real time via an app. It will also send an alert to anyone you put on your list, such as your property management company. Better yet, many insurance companies offer a discount when a water sensor system is installed. Additionally, water sensors can save money on your water bill by reducing the water flow while you’re away or when temperatures drop to avoid frozen pipes.
These preventative measures can dramatically increase your family’s safety and avoid costly home disasters. We’re here to help keep worries at a minimum so you can enjoy every second as a homeowner. Top Hat’s Annual Advantage Program provides clients with regular inspections and proactive maintenance to stay one step ahead of catastrophe.
Gary Mindlin is co-founder and owner of Top Hat Home Services, a full-service property care and management company. Top Hat services homes in Manhattan and are known as experts in every aspect of building management, maintenance and repair, as well as renovation and construction supervision.