Estate Security: How Stable Communities Make Safer Homes
24 Feb 2025
The way we live in estates is changing. As South Africa moves to regulate short-term rentals, there's a bigger story to tell about security in our residential communities.
Think about it, when you're living next to a revolving door of holiday renters, how do you know who belongs and who doesn't? That's the challenge our security teams face every day. Every new short-term guest means new access cards, new faces, and new security risks to manage.
"You can have the best security systems in the world, but they work better when residents know their neighbours," says Adriaan Otto, Managing Director. "When someone's lived in an estate for a while, they notice when something's not quite right. They know which cars belong where, which kids belong to which families. That's the kind of community awareness you just can't get with short-term rentals."
Quick Security Tips for Estate Living:
•Get to know your immediate neighbours
•Always report suspicious activity
•Keep your access card/codes secure and never share them
•Update your details with security when your phone number changes
•Make sure your domestic workers and contractors are properly registered
•Join your estate's community WhatsApp group for security updates
•Update vehicle details with security
•Abide by estate rules and encourage others to do the same
It's not just about watching out for trouble. Long-term residents learn the estate's security routines, understand the rules, and become part of the community's safety network. They're more likely to report suspicious activity because they care about their home, not just their holiday accommodation.
The upcoming rental regulations could help estates build these stronger, safer communities. Instead of dealing with a constant stream of tourists and temporary guests, security teams can focus on protecting a more stable community where everyone knows the drill.
The bottom line? Estate security thrives on community connection. When residents put down roots, they become natural guardians of their neighbourhood, recognising unusual activity, understanding security protocols, and actively participating in the estate's safety network. As South Africa moves to regulate short-term rentals, estates may find themselves better positioned to build these stable, security-conscious communities. Want to know more about estate security, contact us here.