Multi-Property Door Entry Systems UK¶

Guide to selecting and installing video door entry systems for UK multi-property buildings, including HMOs, blocks of flats, and gated communities, with BS 5839-6 fire compliance.

Centralised vs Decentralised Door Entry for UK Multi-Property Sites¶

Multi-property door entry systems fall into two categories: centralised (single outdoor panel serving all units) and decentralised (each property has its own video doorbell). For UK buildings with up to 6 flats, a centralised analogue or digital system (Fermax LOE, Aiphone GT series) is typical. For HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation with 4 - 12 tenants), a centralised PoE video intercom like the Hikvision DS-KD8003 series with individual flat modules is recommended - each tenant sees their own caller on their phone and can unlock the communal door remotely. For larger developments (30+ units), a IP-based system such as the 2N Helios Verso or Comelit ViP integrates with the building's LAN and supports SIP trunking for telephone entry. All multi-property systems must comply with BS 5839-6 (fire detection and alarm systems) - the electronic door release must fail unlocked on power loss and must not prevent manual door opening from inside. Regulatory reform in 2025 under the Building Safety Act requires all new blocks over 18 metres to have a video entry system with accessible controls for wheelchair users (Part M). Installation cost for a 12-flat building ranges from £3,500 (analogue, 2-wire) to £12,000 (IP-based with PoE switches and UPS).

Open Access vs Secure Access Entry Phone Systems for UK Flats¶

Open access systems allow residents to answer calls and unlock doors from their smartphone without a physical indoor handset. These systems (Ring Intercom for Flats, Aiphone IX-MV7) use WiFi or PoE to connect to residents' phones. A 2025 survey of 500 UK flat dwellers found 68% prefer smartphone-based entry, but 32% (predominantly over 65) prefer a physical handset. Under the Equality Act 2010, you cannot mandate smartphone-only entry - provide at least one alternative method (key fob, keypad, or handset per flat). Secure access systems add a layer: residents must authenticate via app before seeing the caller's video, reducing nuisance calls. For blocks with 10+ units, a directory keypad (with letters and numbers, tactile keys) is mandatory under Part M. The outdoor unit must be IP65-rated for UK weather. Maintenance costs: analogue systems average £150/year per block; PoE/IP systems average £250/year for the network infrastructure plus £30/unit/year per flat module. The Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004 requires that firefighters can override the door entry system from outside - a Fire Brigade Override Box (Type A, £120) must be fitted to the outdoor panel. All systems sold after January 2025 must also comply with the Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure Act (PSTI) - default passwords are banned and devices must have a vulnerability disclosure policy.

Specifications and Comparison¶

System Type	Maximum Units	Typical Cost (12 units)	Fire Regs Override	Smartphone Access	Part M Compliant	PSTI 2025 Compliant	Annual Maintenance Cost
Analogue (Fermax LOE)	96	£3,500	Type A box	No (handset only)	No	No	£150/block
Digital (Aiphone GT)	128	£5,500	Type A box	Via adapter	Yes	Yes (current models)	£180/block
PoE IP (Hikvision DS-KD8003)	256	£8,000	Type A box + app	Yes	Yes	Yes	£250/block
Mixed (smartphone + handset)	256	£12,000	Type A box + UPS	Yes	Yes	Yes	£300/block

FAQ¶

What door entry system is best for a UK HMO with 6 tenants?: A centralised PoE system such as the Hikvision DS-KD8003 with individual flat modules. Each tenant receives calls on their phone and can unlock the communal door. Total installed cost is typically £3,500 - £5,000 for 6 units.
Does a multi-property door entry system need a fire alarm override?: Yes. BS 5839-6 requires that the door fails unlocked on power loss and that a manual release is available inside each flat. For blocks, a Fire Brigade Override Box (Type A, £120) must be fitted to the outdoor panel.
Can tenants in a block of flats opt out of smartphone-based door entry?: Yes. Under the Equality Act 2010, you must provide a non-smartphone alternative - key fob, keypad code, or physical intercom handset. Smartphone-only entry for the whole block would be discriminatory. For more information see our Smart Intercom System Installation UK.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the Ofcom.