10 Reasons to Invest in a Video Intercom for Your Rental Property

As a landlord, managing tenant access while keeping your rental property secure can be a challenge—especially if you don’t live on-site. Lost keys, lockouts, package theft, and unauthorized visitors are common headaches that can cost you time and money.

A video intercom system is a game-changer for small multifamily landlords. It allows tenants to see and verify visitors before granting access, while you can manage entry remotely—whether you’re at home, at another property, or on vacation.

In this post, we’ll break down 10 compelling reasons why a video intercom is one of the best investments you can make for your rental business.

10 Reasons Small Multifamily Landlords Should Consider a Video Intercom

There are many reasons a landlord of small and mid-sized properties should consider investing in a video intercom system, but we’ve narrowed it down to the top 10 reasons.

Let’s dive in.

1. Reduce Tenant Lockouts & Emergency Calls

Late-night lockout calls are frustrating for both landlords and tenants. A video intercom eliminates this hassle by allowing residents to open the door via a mobile app, no physical key needed. This means fewer emergency calls, no need for spare keys, and no costly locksmith visits.

2. Improve Security & Reduce Unauthorized Visitors

From package theft to unwanted solicitors, controlling who enters your building is key to tenant safety. With a video intercom, residents can visually confirm visitors before granting access, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry. Some systems log entry events, helping landlords resolve security concerns or disputes.

3. Simplify Leasing & Property Showings

When renting out a unit, scheduling property tours can be time-consuming—especially if you manage multiple properties. A video intercom allows you to remotely grant access to prospective tenants for self-guided tours, saving you time while keeping the property secure.

Say you’re out of town, but a great prospect wants a tour. Instead of waiting, you can verify their ID and grant temporary access through the intercom system.

4. Help Self-Managing Landlords Grant Access Remotely

If you don’t have an on-site property manager, a video intercom allows you to verify and grant access to contractors, maintenance personnel, or tenants right from your phone. No more meeting service providers in person, just approve access from anywhere.

5. Increase Property Value & Rental Appeal

Today’s renters expect modern security features. A video intercom boosts your property’s value by adding convenience and safety, making it easier to justify higher rents. Properties with smart security upgrades can charge higher rent prices and attract tenants looking for long-term, secure places to live.

6. Attract & Retain Long-Term Tenants with Modern Amenities

Tech-savvy renters, especially younger professionals, look for smart features when choosing where to live. A video intercom adds a touch of luxury and convenience, helping your property stand out in a competitive market. Say a prospective tenant is choosing between two units. Your property has a video intercom for secure, keyless entry. That’s an easy win over a traditional buzzer system.

7. Streamline Short-Term Rentals & Airbnb Guest Access

If you rent out units for mid-term or short-term stays, managing key handoffs can be a hassle. A video intercom lets you remotely verify and grant access to guests, making check-ins seamless. No more lost keys or changing locks between stays.

8. Lower Liability & Provide a Record of Entry Events

Video intercoms with cameras record entry activity, reducing liability if there’s a dispute about unauthorized access. If a tenant claims a contractor entered without permission, you can check the access log to verify exactly who was granted entry and when.

9. Save Money on Rekeying & Lock Changes

Traditional keys are expensive to replace. A video intercom eliminates the need for constant rekeying since access is digital and easy to update. Landlords can save hundreds per year by reducing lock changes and emergency locksmith calls.

10. Future-Proof Your Rental Business

Investing in smart technology like a video intercom keeps your property competitive and appeals to modern tenants. As access control evolves, properties with secure, digital entry systems will be more attractive to renters and investors alike. A one-time investment in a video intercom pays off for years by reducing operational headaches and boosting property value.

Features of a Great Video Intercom System

Not all video intercom systems are created equal. If you’re considering upgrading your rental property with a modern access control solution, here are the key features to look for to ensure convenience, security, and long-term value.

Smartphone-Based Access Control

A high-quality video intercom system should allow tenants to unlock doors from their smartphones, eliminating the need for traditional keys or fobs. This feature enhances convenience while reducing the risk of lost or stolen keys.

Remote Visitor Management

A great video intercom enables residents to see, speak with, and grant access to visitors from anywhere via a mobile app. Whether a tenant is at work or traveling, they can verify guests before letting them in.

Cloud-Based System with Secure Access Logs

Look for a system that stores entry logs securely in the cloud, allowing landlords to track who enters the property and when. Having access records can help resolve tenant disputes and enhance overall security.

Integration with Smart Locks & Property Management Software

A top-tier video intercom should seamlessly integrate with smart locks and property management platforms, allowing landlords to streamline entry permissions and automate workflows.

Hassle-Free Package Delivery Access

Online shopping is at an all-time high, and tenants expect secure package delivery options. A video intercom with one-time access codes or delivery-specific entry settings allows couriers to leave packages in a designated area without requiring tenant involvement.

Weather-Resistant, Durable Hardware

A great video intercom should feature weatherproof, vandal-resistant construction, ensuring it withstands outdoor conditions and potential tampering.

No In-Unit Hardware Required

For landlords managing multiple rental units, a system that operates without requiring in-unit hardware simplifies installation and reduces maintenance costs. Tenants can access the system via their smartphones instead of relying on wired intercom stations.

A Smart, Scalable Upgrade for Small Multifamily Landlords

For landlords who own and self-manage duplexes, triplexes, or small apartment buildings, a video intercom system is one of the best investments you can make.

A video intercom system can help you:

• Improve security & control access remotely
• Reduce lockouts, package theft, and emergency calls
• Attract higher-paying tenants & increase property value
• Save time on leasing, maintenance, and guest access
• Lower liability & future-proof your rental business

As more renters expect tech-enabled security solutions, adding a video intercom positions your rental property ahead of the curve while making your job as a landlord easier.

About ButterflyMX

ButterflyMX is your complete property access solution, providing a secure, convenient, and affordable way to manage and grant access on the go. Empower your tenants and building staff to open doors, gates, and elevators with a smartphone and ensure they never miss a visitor or delivery. Enjoy easy installation and cut costs by eliminating building wiring and in-unit hardware, and save time by integrating with popular access control and property management systems. Join the 15,000+ multifamily, commercial, gated community, and student housing properties that have made access simple with ButterflyMX. To learn more, please visit www.butterflymx.com or call (800) 398-4416.