A door that won't lock is an emergency - includes list of security recommendations for real property owners

Real Estate Weekly, Nov 11, 1992

On Sept. 30, 1990, a Bronx man returning home at 3:00 a.m. was attacked and robbed in the lobby of his apartment building. The man has charged that the landlord was "negligent and reckless" in providing adequate building security, and is suing for $15 million.

Incidents such as this are increasingly common, with property owners the subject of lawsuits involving the safety and security of their tenants. The legal profession is aggressively pursuing cases like this, in a new kind of ambulance chasing.

According to security expert Jordan Lubitz, president of Jordan Intercom Systems, "We are getting a growing number of calls from property owners who are increasingly concerned with their liability. As far as we are concerned, a door that doesn't lock is an emergency. That's why we provide same-day emergency service for all security related problems. With crime statistics rising, everyone is concerned with safety. There are a number of steps that tenants and owners can take that are inexpensive, and can potentially save a life."

Lubitz recommends the following brief cheeklist of ten points to help guide owners and tenants in security precautions: 1. Check the locks. Make sure that all locks work, in lobbies and entrances as well as in apartments. All entrances should have doors that are self closing and self locking. 2. Make sure the intercom is in good working condition. A broken intercom can prevent access by the police as well as allow entry by criminals. 3. Use the intercom. A working intercom is useless without the tenants' cooperation in using it at all times to screen visitors. 4. Use the peephole in the apartment. 5. Make sure all lights in the hallway and building are working. 6. Report all problems, and follow up. Reporting a problem to the superintendent or manager isn't enough. Follow up to make sure it has been taken care of. 7. Post security notices. Keep tenants informed of any recent problems, and any potentially dangerous areas or situations. 8. Check with police. The police department can inform you of any reported crime in your neighborhood, and advise you on security precautions. 9. The most dangerous areas of any building are the basement entrances, stairwells and laundry rooms. These areas should always be approached with caution. They should all be well lighted, and checked periodically. 10. Use common sense. For example, always look behind you when entering your building; be aware of anyone who tries to enter with you that does not have a key.

Following this simple guideline can help you avoid potential catastrophe.