The UK ’ s ageing population is accelerating the pressure to make these improvements and support the elderly who wish to live independently . Indeed , figures show that those aged over 45 will account for at least half of all privately rented households by 2035 – up from 35 % in 2018 ^{[ 1 ]} To help meet the needs of this growing demographic , the Good Home Inquiry panel recommends that housing professionals use the highest quality products and a thorough repairs audit to bring housing up to standard . One way for landlords and managers to start the process is by investing in the latest wireless access control technology . Here , we discuss why it ’ s the right time for installers to expand their portfolio with high-quality wireless building entry systems that are more accessible for tenants , while streamlining processes for housing professionals too .

High quality wireless technology

Despite the current focus on new builds , it ’ s estimated that more than 80 % of the homes that will be needed by 2050 actually already exist today . Updating housing with the highest quality products , as per the Inquiry ’ s recommendation , is therefore key , but recent research shows cost is the main barrier for many housing professionals . ^{[ 2 ]} Investing in the latest wireless access control technology for one aspect of the housing improvements , however , doesn ’ t have to break the bank . Cost-effective options like Intratone ’ s wireless SC-03 intercom , for example , can help to improve the building entry experience . Powered by the Global System

for Mobile Communications ( GSM ), the same technology used for mobile phones , it connects residents with visitors across an unlimited network . This enables them to answer the door via a landline or their preferred digital device , like a smartphone or tablet . Unlike many other residential intercom models , the SC-03 also has a full-colour screen and animations , to better engage tenants when making or receiving calls . Plus , thanks to its pinhole video camera in the intercom device , residents can have peace of mind that their building is secure , as they can check who is at their door before granting entry .

Improved accessibility

According to figures , 91 % of all UK homes do not provide even the lowest level of accessibility ^{[ 3 ]} . Intercoms with the latest wireless technology are one way to make

building entry more accessible and seamless for residents and their guests .

Audio induction loops , for example , are a helpful feature on access control devices , as they wirelessly transmit sound from the intercom in question to a person ’ s hearing aid . This means that those with hearing impairments can communicate more easily when they visit tenants in the building – without unwanted background noise . For the visually impaired too , modern intercom keypads have been designed to make visiting tenants even easier . Devices with backlighting help users to locate and maintain visual attention , particularly compared to more muted varieties . Intercoms featuring yellow rings around the buttons also provide a sharper contrast for visitors with reduced vision , while braille helps them to identify which button is which .

Streamlining workflows

Beyond improving door entry for tenants , wireless intercoms also bring a range of benefits for housing professionals and installers alike . Like all Intratone ’ s intercoms , the SC-03 is connected to an online remote management system , which keeps building access information in one central place . It ’ s a practical solution for busy housing managers , as they can oversee properties without leaving their desk . Everyday tasks like editing resident details and granting access to external contractors can be done quickly and easily in just a few clicks , ensuring that maintenance issues are rapidly resolved without the need for a site visit .

From an installation point of view , these devices are wirefree , so buildings don ’ t need extensive recabling . There are no handsets to set up either and

the entire process takes just a few hours . Plus , with no need to enter individual flats to connect receivers to wires and handsets , residents are not disturbed . This makes replacing tired , outdated infrastructure with modern systems much easier , proving that retrofitting can be a feasible and less time-consuming option .

Time for change

Housing professionals must act fast to continue meeting the needs of a changing population and the latest guidelines . There has never been a better time for installers to expand their portfolio with the latest wireless intercoms , like Intratone ’ s SC-03 . These innovative , cost-effective devices make building entry more accessible and easier to use for tenants of all ages and abilities , while bringing numerous benefits for housing managers and installers . By acting now , we can all play our part in ensuring housing is up to standard and reaches a high level of quality for now and years to come .

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