The Smart Building Upgrade You Can’t Delay: Why Replacing Your Intercom System Now Saves Money, Time & Headaches

Recently, Allan Liers—President & Co-Founder of Metro Security Experts—sat down with Cooperator News NY to tackle one of the biggest challenges facing residential and commercial buildings today: replacing outdated intercom systems without breaking budgets or tearing apart buildings.

Technology evolves fast… much faster than the concrete, plaster, and wiring inside the buildings we live and work in. Intercom systems are the perfect example. They were once state-of-the-art. Today, they’re the weakest link in many properties' security, tenant experience, and operational efficiency.

But here’s the reality most building owners are waking up to:

A modern video intercom isn’t a luxury anymore—it’s a baseline expectation for today’s residents, tenants, and commercial users. And replacing your old system is one of the smartest investments you can make as a facility manager or property owner—especially as 2026 approaches and technology standards continue rising.

Below, Allan breaks down where the real challenges lie and why a strategically selected, cloud-based or hybrid intercom system can reduce long-term expenses, boost property value, and radically improve tenant satisfaction.

Why Replacing Old Intercom Systems Matters Now

Old wired intercoms were built for one simple task:

Buzz someone in.

Today's tenants expect much more:

✔ Video verification

✔ Mobile app access

✔ Package room integration

✔ Visitor management

✔ Cloud-based history logs

✔ Remote unlock capability

✔ Touchless access

✔ Integration with building security systems

If your system can’t do this, you're falling behind competitors—especially luxury rentals, Class-A office buildings, mixed-use properties, and large apartment complexes that cater to tech-savvy residents.

The Real Challenges: Prewar, Mid-Century & Postwar Buildings

Prewar Buildings (Built before WWII): The Perfect Storm

According to Allan:

“Their original wiring infrastructure is obsolete, often cloth-wrapped, brittle, or unsafe. Modern IP systems simply can’t run on it.”

Key issues:

• Obsolete wiring requiring full rewiring

• Thick concrete & plaster walls that make cable runs difficult

• Historic preservation restrictions

• Potential asbestos or lead paint requiring abatement

• Inaccessible or underpowered electrical sources

This is why so many buildings delay upgrades—the cost and disruption scare them.

Mid-Century to 1980s Buildings: “Less Historic, Still a Headache”

Even with thinner walls or modern drywall, challenges remain:

• Aging, proprietary wiring

• No support for video or IP

• In-unit panels leaving large holes in walls after removal

• Systems like NuTone that can’t be repaired

• Lack of documentation on wiring routes

• No planning for WiFi or mobile integration

Universal Challenges:

• High cost of full rewiring

• Resident disruption

• Code compliance

• Signal interference

• Hidden junction boxes

• Lack of as-built drawings

So, what’s the smart path forward?

Here’s Allan’s advice:

“Look for systems that let you keep your existing infrastructure whenever possible. Replace the panel, not the entire backbone.”

This is where modern WiFi-based or cellular-enabled video intercom systems shine.

Benefits:

✔ Minimal construction

✔ No need for full rewiring

✔ Reduced capital expense

✔ Reduced operating expense

✔ Fast installation

✔ Less disruption for tenants

✔ Integrates with smartphones

✔ Future-proof for new technologies

In-Wall Wired Systems vs. Cloud / Mobile-Based Systems

• Old Wired Systems

• Simple operation

• High maintenance costs

• Limited functionality

• No remote access

• No video

• No integration options

Modern Video Intercom Systems

• Smartphone integration

• Cloud-based logs

• Video calling

• Visitor management tools

• Package delivery coordination

• Access control integration

• Better tenant experience

• Lower long-term TCO (Total Cost of Ownership)

Allan adds: “Your system is becoming obsolete rapidly. Invest in technology that does more for less—and protects your building long-term.”

Why This Upgrade Pays for Itself

1. Lower Maintenance Costs

No more replacing panels, wiring, or proprietary hardware.

2. Higher Tenant Satisfaction

People want convenience—and are willing to pay more for it.

3. Reduced Staff Workload

Package handling, visitor coordination, and access requests become automated.

4. Better Security

Video + audit logs = peace of mind for residents, managers, and boards.

5. Increases Property Value

Buyers and lenders see up-to-date infrastructure as a major asset.

Is This Upgrade Right for Your Building?

If you’re managing:

• A luxury rental building

• An apartment complex

• A multifamily community

• A Class-A or B office property

• A co-op or condo

• A mixed-use building

…then a modern video intercom system will dramatically elevate your property's appeal and reduce long-term costs.

“If you're unsure, get a demo. The difference is night and day—and most boards immediately see the value.” – Allan Liers

See Metro Security Experts Live

Meet Us at the Cooperator Expo NY

📍 Booth #120

📅 November 18th, 2025

Stop by for:

• Live system demos

• Side-by-side comparisons of wired vs. cloud systems

• Budget planning insights

• A complimentary consultation + quote

• Guidance specific to prewar, mid-century, and postwar buildings

Ready to Explore Whether a Modern Intercom System Is Right for Your Building?

• Request a complimentary on-site assessment

• See a live demo

• Get a tailored quote for your specific building type