Best Security Cameras for Apartment Complex – Scavi’s 2025 Picks
Scavi’s Picks: The Best Surveillance Cameras for Apartments in 2025
As apartment living continues to dominate Australia’s urban landscape, safety and peace of mind are no longer optional—they’re expected. In Sydney alone, over 45% of households live in apartments, and many strata committees and landlords are turning to apartment surveillance camera solutions to keep shared spaces secure. But with so many models on the market, how do you choose the best security cameras for apartment complex protection?
From monitoring lobbies to protecting garages and preventing package theft, surveillance in 2025 is smarter, more discreet, and increasingly wireless. In this guide, SCAVI reveals top camera picks, must-have features, and tips to help you create a seamless, compliant, and reliable system for your building.
Why 2025 Demands Smarter Apartment Surveillance Solutions
Rising Security Concerns in Urban Apartment Complexes
Sydney’s increasing population density brings more foot traffic, deliveries, and potential security risks. Shared hallways, mailrooms, and garages often go unmonitored, leaving residents vulnerable to theft, vandalism, or unauthorized access.
How Modern Camera Systems Support Peace of Mind
Today’s systems provide more than just footage—they offer real-time alerts, remote access, and AI-powered monitoring. For both tenants and landlords, a well-installed camera system reduces disputes, ensures accountability, and even lowers insurance risks.
Trends in Apartment Security Technology: Smarter, Smaller, More Secure
In 2025, cameras are becoming
smaller, wireless, cloud-ready, and often
self-installable. With features like
facial recognition, motion zones, and encrypted footage, even budget-friendly systems now offer enterprise-grade functionality.
What to Look For in the Best Security Cameras for Apartment Complex
Coverage Needs: Lobby, Garage, Shared Entrances, and Individual Units
The apartment security camera system should cover all vulnerable zones. This includes:
- Entry and exit points
- Underground car parks
- Shared mail and storage rooms
- Elevators and stairwells
- Common courtyards or rooftop spaces
SCAVI recommends mapping each area with visibility angles and lighting conditions in mind.
Wired vs Wireless: Which Suits Apartment Buildings Better?
For existing buildings with minimal cabling, a wireless security camera for apartment building is ideal. These are easier to install and maintain, especially when retrofitting. Wired systems, while more stable, are better for new developments or large complexes with integrated infrastructure.
Weather Resistance and Durability for External Placements
Outdoor security cameras for apartments need to withstand heat, rain, and potential tampering. Look for models rated IP65 or higher with features like anti-vandal casings and infrared night vision.
System Scalability: Cameras That Grow with Your Building’s Needs
Choose systems that can expand—whether you're adding one unit now or planning full coverage later. SCAVI suggests platforms that allow multi-camera integration, shared access control, and centralized storage management.
Scavi’s Picks – Top Surveillance Cameras for Apartments in 2025
1. Ubiquiti UniFi Protect G4 – Reliable for Large Complex Coverage
Ideal for strata-level installations, this system offers high-res video, PoE support, and excellent software integration for larger complexes.
2. Reolink RLK8 System – All-in-One Apartment Security Camera System
This plug-and-play apartment security camera system comes with 4–8 channel NVR, smart motion detection, and local storage. Great for mid-sized buildings.
3. Arlo Pro 5S – Sleek, Wireless, and Ideal for Tech-Savvy Users
As a wireless security camera for apartment building setups, Arlo Pro 5S delivers sharp video, customizable alerts, and cloud integration—no wires required.
4. Google Nest Cam Outdoor – Smart AI Alerts and Easy Cloud Access
Perfect for shared outdoor areas. Nest Cam uses intelligent alerts, facial recognition, and seamless app control that syncs with Google Home.
5. Hikvision Value Series – Trusted Commercial-Grade Surveillance
These cameras are built for 24/7 monitoring in commercial or apartment complexes. They offer robust security features, including tamper alarms and advanced IR.
6. EufyCam 3C – No Monthly Fees, Great for Smaller Buildings
This camera offers local 4K storage, solar charging, and AI tracking. Ideal for owners who want excellent value without cloud subscription fees.
7. TP-Link VIGI System – Budget-Friendly Yet Enterprise-Ready
VIGI offers affordable kits with smart compression, multi-camera support, and remote access—perfect for strata communities seeking value and
performance.
Apartment Surveillance Camera Solutions That Work for Every Scenario
Entry and Exit Monitoring: Front Doors, Garages, Lobbies
Protect high-traffic zones with high-resolution, motion-triggered cameras. Timed recordings and license plate capture are also helpful in garages.
Shared Space Supervision: Gyms, Elevators, Courtyards
Monitor misuse or vandalism with discreet wall-mounted cams. Placement must respect privacy laws—SCAVI helps identify what’s compliant.
Package Theft Prevention in Mailrooms and Delivery Zones
Mount cameras near mailboxes and entrances to deter theft. Pair with motion alerts for real-time notifications.
Unit-Level Security: Discreet Options for Renters or Owners
For individual apartments,
indoor wireless cameras or peephole viewers offer added assurance without violating strata rules.
How to Plan a Secure Apartment Security Camera System That Works
Mapping Out High-Risk Zones and Access Points
Start with a visual walkthrough of the property. Identify blind spots and common entry/exit routes. SCAVI offers on-site assessments to help with planning.
Working with Strata Managers or Landlords
Collaborative planning avoids disputes. SCAVI provides proposal-ready documentation for strata approval, including system specs and privacy compliance.
Legal Considerations: Privacy, Signage, and Data Compliance in NSW
In NSW, you must notify residents about surveillance and ensure data is stored securely. Signage and privacy policies are essential for compliance.
Choosing Between Local Recording and Cloud-Based Storage
Local NVRs offer long-term, high-resolution storage without ongoing fees. Cloud storage offers convenience and remote backup—many clients choose hybrid setups.
Real Feedback: How Sydney Apartment Owners Upgraded with Scavi’s Help
Case Study: A Strata Complex in Ryde Added 12-Camera Coverage
After a spike in vandalism, the committee engaged SCAVI to install cameras across all entrances, lifts, and the basement garage. Incident reports dropped within weeks.
Interview: A Landlord Explains How Surveillance Reduced Disputes
“Having security cameras in the lobby stopped the noise complaints and missing parcel issues. I can review footage and respond quickly,” said Michael, a landlord in Homebush.
Success Story: A Renter Installs a Wireless Cam After Repeated Mail Theft
Sophie in Redfern added a discreet, app-connected indoor cam to watch her front door and parcels—no strata rules broken, total peace of mind.
FAQs When Choosing the Best Security Cameras for Apartment Complex
Can I Install Security Cameras in a Shared Building as a Tenant or Owner?
Yes, but you must follow strata rules and ensure cameras only record your property or approved common areas.
What’s the Difference Between Consumer and Commercial-Grade Systems?
Commercial systems offer higher durability, better scalability, and enterprise-level software—ideal for large complexes.
How Long Is Footage Stored, and Who Controls Access to It?
It depends on the system. Strata-controlled systems usually retain footage for 14–60 days. SCAVI helps configure access policies and retention settings.
How Much Should I Budget for a Multi-Camera Apartment Setup in Sydney?
Prices vary based on scale. A quality 4-camera system with installation starts from $1,500–$3,000. Larger complexes may invest $5,000+ depending on needs.
Final Advice from Scavi: Secure Your Apartment with Confidence in 2025
With so many options available, selecting the best security cameras for apartment complex setups comes down to understanding your building’s layout, budget, and resident needs. Whether you’re retrofitting a 12-unit block or upgrading an entire strata tower, SCAVI ensures you get a solution that’s compliant, scalable, and built to last.
Need help? We’re just one call away.
This article is brought to you by SCAVI – Sydney’s trusted name in security and AV installation services.
