As more Downtown Los Angeles buildings are converted into lofts, the need for upgraded access control grows. Old offices, factories, and warehouses often lack the hardware and systems needed to support residential living. When these properties are renovated, owners must consider how people will enter, exit, and navigate the space safely and securely.
At West Coast Locksmith, we help property owners design and install access systems that match the functionality of converted buildings after renovation. This guide outlines the key steps to plan an access control upgrade that balances both safety and convenience.
Map Out All Building Access Points
Start by identifying every location where controlled entry may be necessary. These include front doors, back exits, stairwells, unit doors, shared spaces, and mechanical rooms. Many older buildings have access points designed initially for employees or delivery crews. During conversion, these entries may now serve tenants, guests, and service workers. This list will help you decide where to place access devices and what type of control each area requires.
It’s essential to walk through the entire building and take notes on:
- Entry points used by tenants, visitors, or deliveries
- Doors leading to shared amenities or storage rooms
Match Systems to Building Size and Use
Loft buildings vary in size. Some have fewer than 10 units, while others may house dozens. The number of tenants, types of shared areas, and frequency of guest visits all influence the kind of system you’ll need. A small conversion might be well-suited for simple keypads. A larger one may require managed access via fobs, cards, or mobile apps.
For unit doors, smart locks are often the best fit. These allow tenants to unlock with a code and let property managers update access remotely without changing the lock. Shared building entries usually benefit from systems that log activity and support unique credentials per user.
Upgrade Old Locks and Entry Hardware
Many older properties use basic locks or outdated buzzers that were never designed for modern access control. These often lack both the durability and flexibility needed in a residential setting. If the building still has original locks, damaged strike plates, or misaligned doors, it’s best to replace them during renovation.
We check each door for strength, function, and alignment before installation. If we identify weak spots, we replace or reinforce the hardware to ensure the system operates reliably over time.
Plan for Guest and Delivery Entry
Residents of Downtown LA receive frequent visits from friends, food delivery services, and package carriers. Your access system should support these interactions without requiring tenants to unlock doors or leave them open manually.
Options like video intercoms, secure drop boxes, or time-based codes allow short-term access without compromising security. These features help reduce complaints and improve the living experience without adding extra work for management.
Manage Access Levels for Staff and Vendors
In multi-unit buildings, not everyone needs the same level of access. Tenants need entry to their units and common spaces. Maintenance workers may need limited-time access to utility rooms. Cleaning crews may require access only on certain days.
With a structured access system, you can:
- Assign timed access for specific users
- Limit entry to designated doors and hours
Install for Long-Term Use
Even the best system will fail if poorly installed. We secure all hardware into the framing, test every lock for smooth function, and confirm that doors close and latch properly. Our installations are designed to work reliably from day one and support future changes to the property’s access needs.
Secure Your Loft Conversion the Right Way
Downtown LA loft conversions need access systems that match modern use. Whether your building has six units or sixty, early planning prevents future problems and keeps the property secure.
West Coast Locksmith provides access control planning, system installation, and hardware upgrades throughout DTLA. Contact us to schedule a site evaluation and get expert guidance on securing your converted space.
