Examining the Rise of Gated Communities in Cyprus
In response to a spike in thefts and a growing desire for heightened security, Cyprus has seen an uptick in the development of gated housing projects. These communities, which began emerging around 25 years ago, offer residents the promise of a safer and more private living environment. The allure of such secure enclaves has increasingly become a focal point in real estate marketing within the region.
The advantages of these gated complexes are manifold. Residents enjoy a sense of increased safety, bolstered by electrically controlled entrances that keep out uninvited guests and reduce traffic to those who live there or are visiting. Surveillance cameras can be strategically placed at main entrances and throughout the community, although this raises concerns about personal data protection.
However, the convenience of gated living comes with its own set of challenges. The initial investment for an electric gate system is substantial, hovering around €4,000, not to mention the annual maintenance fees estimated between €300-€400. Inconveniences arise when visitors or service personnel are unfamiliar with access codes, or when residents themselves forget them or misplace their remote controls. Such situations can lead to forced entries, resulting in damage to the infrastructure.
Security codes shared with non-residents can compromise the system’s integrity, necessitating periodic changes that are hardly practical. Technical malfunctions can also leave individuals stranded outside their homes at inopportune times, such as the early hours of the morning after a trip.
To mitigate these issues, certain features have proven effective. These include an intercom system connecting the gate to each residence, a manual override key box for electrical failures, multilingual instructions for residents, and an automatic exit sensor. It is also recommended to have a separate pedestrian gate and to choose a sturdy two-meter-high steel gate over a simple barrier.
Despite best practices, gated communities still face operational problems. Antonis Loizou & Associates EPE, which manages five gated projects, reports recurring issues with gates due to forced entry attempts by residents and visitors alike. The addition of cameras for extra security has sparked privacy concerns among some occupants, leading to a compromise where gates remain open during the day and are only activated after dark.
As Cyprus continues to embrace the concept of gated communities, residents must adapt to the nuances of living within these protected spaces. The balance between security and convenience remains a delicate one, with ongoing learning and adjustments necessary for harmonious community living.
Antonis Loizou & Associates EPE – Real Estate Appraisers & Development Project Managers, offer their expertise on navigating the complexities of gated community living in Cyprus. For more information, visit www.aloizou.com.cy or contact them via email at [email protected].
