Maintaining Common Area Safety & Security

Read the full article at CooperatorNews.com.

Safety in shared-interest and multifamily communities goes far beyond locks and cameras; it’s about creating a living environment where residents can move through common spaces with confidence and comfort. From preventing slip-and-fall incidents to ensuring proper lighting, signage, and ADA compliance, safety and security are rooted in consistent, proactive management practices. 

“Slip-and-falls happen more frequently in over-55 communities, though the prevention protocols we employ are the same across all properties.” notes Jessica Ruiz, Senior Vice President of Management for AKAM Southeast.  “Though the protocols we employ to prevent these types of accidents are the same for both over-55 communities and those that are not age restricted, care and caution increase. There is a set protocol to prevent these incidents and also one to mitigate. Every building has their procedures, though it varies a little.”

Ruiz explains that daily inspections by management and staff are essential, not only to reduce liability but also to reinforce trust and safety within communities. 

“We do our inspections literally daily as part of our routine — from security personnel to our managers, engineers, and housekeeping teams,” says Ruiz. “When they’re walking the property, they’re looking around to make sure we don’t expose the residents or the association to a problem. We employ a simple process: if something doesn’t appear correct, a photo is taken and reported to the appropriate department and the issue is then handled by the appropriate staff.  It’s our job to reduce liability and make things safe for people.” 

Industry leaders agree that prevention, documentation, and education form the foundation of effective safety programs.

“Common areas must be viewed as extensions of the resident’s homes, regardless of where or what part of the property we are talking about,” adds Ruiz. “As management, we have to consider both lifestyle and liability.” 

Proper lighting, a non-slip flooring product, gym cleanup protocols, and handrails in halls and stairwells all help to mitigate accidents and crime.

And it’s critically important to remember that everything must be ADA compliant as well as compliant with local codes,” Ruiz continues.”

Strong safety policies protect both residents and boards from legal exposure, while fostering a culture of accountability. At AKAM, this commitment translates to structured inspection programs, proactive hazard mitigation, and continuous communication between management, boards, and residents, ensuring every property remains a secure, compliant, and welcoming place to live.