Demand for TV monitor intercoms is rising in rental apartments. As crimes involving people posing as delivery or service workers continue to increase, an intercom with strong security performance is a major selling point when attracting tenants. This article explains the installation benefits, typical costs, and installation methods.
Why are intercoms becoming more important in rental apartments?
Security equipment has become a factor in rental decisions. It is important to understand why it matters.
Demand for security features and equipment is increasing
Now that internet access is considered standard, the next area drawing attention is security equipment. More people, whether single residents or families, will not consider moving in if security features are lacking.
Security equipment that affects rental decisions
The security features tenants tend to value include the following.
- Auto-lock entry
- Intercom with monitor
- Smart lock
- Parcel box
- Security shutters
- Higher balcony design
Why are TV monitor intercoms so popular?
This section explains why TV monitor intercoms are widely chosen.
Peace of mind from being able to see the visitor’s face
Because you can check the visitor’s face without opening the door, it is easier to deal with suspicious visitors. This feature is especially popular with women living alone and households with children.
Crime prevention benefits from recording functions
Many of the latest TV monitor intercoms come with recording functions. Because a record of visitors while the resident is away remains available, it helps with both security and parcel deliveries.
Smartphone integration
With a Wi-Fi-compatible model, residents can answer visitors on a smartphone while away from home. This significantly improves convenience for tenants, such as reducing the need to request redelivery for parcels.
What types of TV monitor intercoms are available, and how should you choose one?
This section introduces the main intercom types and how to choose one suitable for a rental apartment.
Classification by power supply method
| Type | Features | Suitable property |
|---|---|---|
| Power cord type | Powered from an outlet. Easy to install | Properties without existing wiring |
| Direct-wired type | Powered from in-wall wiring. Cleaner appearance | New builds and large-scale renovation properties |
| Battery-powered type | No electrical work required. Easy to install | Older properties where construction work is difficult |
How to choose by function
- Recording function：records visitors when the resident is away. An essential security feature
- Wide-angle camera：covers a broader area, making it easier to see the visitor’s full appearance
- Night vision：allows residents to confirm the visitor’s face even at night
- Wireless sub-monitor：lets residents respond from anywhere inside the unit
What is the typical cost of installation work?
Installation costs vary depending on the type of intercom and the scope of the work.
General price range for the unit itself
- Basic model (without recording)：10,000 to 20,000 yen
- With recording function：20,000 to 40,000 yen
- Smartphone-linked, high-function model：40,000 to 80,000 yen
General range for installation costs
- Replacement of an existing intercom：5,000 to 15,000 yen per unit
- New installation (with wiring work)：20,000 to 50,000 yen per unit
- System installation for apartment buildings：500,000 to 1,500,000 yen (entire building)
How to think about cost effectiveness
Installing a TV monitor intercom may make it possible to increase monthly rent by 1,000 to 2,000 yen. For a 10-unit apartment building, that can mean additional annual revenue of 120,000 to 240,000 yen.
What should you watch out for during installation?
Check the wiring method
In older properties, the existing wiring may use a two-wire system, which may not support an intercom with a monitor. It is best to confirm the wiring conditions in advance.
Explain how to use it to tenants
By clearly explaining recording functions and smartphone integration to tenants, owners can help them fully appreciate the value of the equipment.
Maintenance planning
The typical service life of an intercom is 10 to 15 years. It is advisable to carry out regular operational checks and planned replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a chime-only intercom be replaced with a TV monitor intercom?
In many cases, yes. However, some situations require wiring work, so it is advisable to request an on-site inspection from an electrical contractor in advance.
Can the installation cost of an intercom be treated as an expense?
If the cost per unit is less than 100,000 yen, it can generally be recorded in full as a repair expense. If it is 100,000 yen or more, it is typically subject to depreciation.
If a tenant breaks the intercom, who pays for the repair?
In general, failures caused by normal use are the owner’s responsibility, while damage caused by the tenant’s negligence is usually the tenant’s responsibility. It is best to state this clearly in the lease agreement.
Which should be prioritized, auto-lock entry or an intercom with a monitor?
From a cost-effectiveness standpoint, an intercom with a monitor generally offers better value. Because auto-lock entry requires changes to the building structure and is more expensive, starting with intercom replacement first is often the more practical approach.
