In a multi-resident or tenant building, mail delivery often happens at a central location. Cluster mailboxes provide a place where the mail carrier can drop off everyone’s mail all at once, and tenants can pick up their mail on their own schedule. When the mail is delivered to an indoor mailbox, the need for security is reduced. External cluster mailboxes, however, need a bit more security. Here are five steps to enhance business mailbox security for both your mail and your clients, residents, or tenants.
Secure Your Mailbox
The benefits of lockable cluster mailboxes include superior security. Almost all of them are made of solid steel or similar materials that resist brute force. Regardless, make sure the mailbox you purchase is secure enough to withstand theft attempts. Look for features like anti-praying latches, reinforced locks, and construction that can stand up to blows. Remember to update the locks, especially if a former tenant fails to turn in their key.
Establish Collection Policies
Encourage tenants to collect their mail on a regular basis. Letting mail sit unattended and building up until it sticks out can catch thieves’ and vandals’ attention. Let tenants know the best time to collect their mail is during normal business hours, and encourage them not to share their key to the mailbox. The more people who have keys, the less secure the mailbox.
Package Lockers
Purchase a cluster mailbox that allows the carrier and delivery services to stow packages rather than leave them outside. If the box doesn’t have lockers or similar storage areas, consider offering service to accept, sign for, collect, and stow packages inside or off-site until tenants can retrieve them. Packages are irresistible to thieves, so remove that temptation.
Lights, Camera, Action
Lights are ideal for tenants who collect mail after the sun goes down, keeping the mailbox (and your tenants) safe. Illuminate places near the box where criminals can hide and break in or rob your tenants. Cameras, or even the threat of cameras through stickers and signs, can also deter crooks and vandals from lingering and tampering with the mailbox. Finally, install cameras to record evidence of robberies and suspicious activity.
The More You (and They) Know…
Another step to enhance business mailbox security is to educate your tenants about looking out for the mail and one another. Make them aware of how they can protect their mail and themselves. Also, introduce local law enforcement and postal authorities to them, and vice versa, in the interest of community support and crime watching. Messing with the mail is a federal crime, so treat it seriously!