Security systems for apartment blocks?

we are in a 5 storey, 12 unit apartment block. We have 2 underground parking areas, with an electronic gate controlled by a "zapper". In the last 4 years our carpark has been broken into 5 times, taking bicycles, surfboards, and breaking into cars.


We tried "dummy security cameras" to deter theives, but they didn't have any effect.


We are now considering "real security cameras"...but we are divided on this issue. Some think that this is just an expensive way of taking a picture of a guy in a balaclava or a Mickey Mouse mask. Others think it would be a good deterrant.


Have you had this problem? What security systems work...and which don't ?


The area is well -lit, and no home has been broken into - just the garage.


Any suggestions ?|||The first thing about security is perimeter control. You need to find out where the weak point on the perimeter is. Then you need to ensure that a person can't get access.


Cameras won't really help if they are going to be quick.


I would try to disorientate them by fitting an audible alarm that is triggered by gaining access over the fence or on the sides where there isn't a lot of movement, you can fit motion sensors all over if you want. Your problem is the amount of people that could move through the area. I would mount a remote receiver and get a remote for each person to deactivate and activate the system.


Then you need action I would put a few pot plants on the window sill and if the sirens go off you just look out the window and if something moves let rip. That way they will think you are a bunch of mad people and that it is dangerous to go close.


If you are a block of flats they will charge a lot for programming remotes and a security system because the body corporate pays. Go and sort out a single system or buy in components and set up once you have it running you can purchase extra remotes and program them yourselves.