American Alarms - September 2025

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Looking for ways to raise apartment rents without major construction? Even better, what if you could also lower insurance costs in the process? There are several ways to boost rent potential. Some updates improve curb appeal, some add value through amenities, and others enhance safety and security. The most attractive improvements, however, don’t require tearing down walls or digging up the property. One option that often checks multiple boxes is upgrading or adding electronic life safety or security systems. You can often do this without cutting into walls or digging underground. We’ve seen firsthand how the right upgrades can make a property more appealing to tenants while lowering long-term costs for owners. It’s the kind of upgrade that can pay off in ways you’ll notice immediately and others you’ll appreciate over time. These systems generally fall into two main categories: Life Safety — These systems typically include fire alarm and detection, specialty call systems for accessible areas, and elevator emergency call systems. Physical Security — This category covers electronic access control, video surveillance, burglar alarm systems, parking gates or arms, visitor call systems, and more. When these systems work properly and a professional central station monitors them, many insurance companies offer discounts on property coverage. Their data shows a significant drop in risk for fire, burglary, and other threats when systems are in place and monitored 24/7. Some clients we’ve interviewed after making changes saw a reduction of 40% in total insurance costs. Discounts can sometimes even “stack” if you have multiple qualifying systems. Raise Rents, Lower Insurance Costs Safety That Pays for Itself

Grandma Linda’s Oatmeal Cookies

INGREDIENTS

• 3/4 cup soft shortening • 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar • 1/2 cup white sugar • 1 large egg • 1/4 cup water • 1 tsp vanilla

• 1 cup flour • 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp baking soda • 3 cups rolled oats • Add chocolate chips, nuts, raisins, etc., if desired (but they’re really good plain)

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease a cookie sheet and set aside. 2. In a large bowl, combine shortening, brown sugar, white sugar, egg, water, and vanilla and beat until well combined. 3. Then add flour, salt, and baking soda and mix until well combined. Stir in rolled oats until distributed evenly. If adding other mix-ins, stir into batter. 4. Drop by spoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes. Makes 2 dozen large cookies. DIRECTIONS

You can also see other benefits when you upgrade: • Fewer false alarms • Faster response by fire and EMS • Better video quality for security footage • Easier access for residents • Fewer management headaches with integrated systems • Compliance with new accessibility and ADA requirements

If you want to position your property for higher rents and lower insurance premiums, start by looking at the systems that protect your residents and assets. With the right plan, you could add value, reduce risk, and give your residents a safer place to live.

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