Much has been said about the need for cybersecurity measures, and while securing computers and digital devices is important, the physical security of business premises should never be overlooked. There are 3 security necessities that every enterprise needs.

Camera

Security cameras are an essential element in protecting property from burglars. They can provide the images needed to identify thieves, bring them to justice, and facilitate the return of stolen goods returned. Don’t skimp on the quality or number of cameras. Businesses will want cameras that record in normal light and infrared at night.

Surveillance cameras are just as important inside a business. They’re effective in documenting instances of employee or vendor theft. They’re also beneficial for identifying employees that are using unsafe work habits that can result in costly lawsuits if an injury occurs.

Alarm

While security cameras deter most intruders, the highly-motivated will still attempt to enter. That’s when an alarm system is invaluable. It will notify authorities when an incursion is actually in progress.

Fencing

Fencing is an excellent deterrent against trespassers and there’s a wide array of fencing from which to choose. A sufficiently high chain link fence is always an effective solution and it can be made even more so by adding an extension at the top with an outward angle. It’s also effective for keeping wildlife out. Business owners can also choose to attach barbed wire or razor wire to the top. It’s typically used at production plants, construction sites and utility facilities.

Housing developments, restaurants, non-profits and even animal shelters can benefit from aluminum fencing. It has the appearance of wrought iron, is available in multiple heights, and can be customized with iron spikes.

Another option for housing developments and eateries with outdoor facilities is SimTek® or PVC fencing. They’re stylish, can be installed at varying heights, offers multiple customization options, and don’t provide intruders with protrusions they can use to scale fencing.

Installing a fence can beautify properties, provide security, deter intruders, and ensure safety for children and pets. Before installing any fencing, it’s critical that individuals know exactly where their property lines run. Failure to do so can lead to fines and an order to remove a newly installed by local governing entities.

Individuals often think they know exactly where their property lines are, but without having it surveyed, there’s no way to be absolutely sure. Subtle variances and errors can be made over time. A survey is absolutely essential for two important reasons. The first is that some jurisdictions allow a fence to be erected directly on a property line.

The second reason is that some locations have a setback rule, stating that a fence has to be established a specific distance away from the property line toward the fence owner’s property That means that individuals could lose up to 12 inches of their property usage due to a setback law. If a fence is installed on any part of a neighbor’s property, the individual erecting the fence will have to move it.

It’s just one of the reasons that the services of a professional fencing company are preferable to a DIY approach. The experts will know the prevailing rules in a particular area. They’ll also know what permits are required and be able to obtain them. Failure to obtain proper permitting can also result in individuals being ordered to remove their fence.

Another consideration are neighbors. In some areas, half of the upkeep and cost of fencing will fall upon the neighbors. It’s a responsibility and cost that many don’t want to incur. Individuals may even need their neighbors’ permission before installing a fence. Neighbors will also have the right to remove branches, bushes and growths that infringe on the fence, even if it’s a prized planting belonging to the fence owner.

People often dream of a white picket fence in front of their home, epitomizing the American dream. Others envision white board fences for their equine friends, reminiscent of those of Kentucky thoroughbreds. Before deciding to erect a wooden fence for any application, there are some things that individuals should know about the material.

Pros

Wood fencing serves a variety of purposes. It can keep children and pets from wandering, deter human and wildlife incursions, provide privacy and beautify properties. The initial cost is typically less than other materials and there’s a multitude of wood types from which to choose ranging from pine and cedar to cypress and redwood.

There’s a wealth of different styles of wood fencing from which to choose and the fencing can be customized in multiple ways. Depending on the application, it can be installed in vertical or horizontal styles. If a board or post deteriorates, it’s a relatively simple matter to replace a single defective part of the fence.

Cons

Fencing constructed from any type of wood is going to require more maintenance than other materials. Wood is subject to the growth of moss, mold and algae, especially in Florida where humidity levels are high and significant amounts of rainfall is present. Rot is a prevalent problem. Wood also attracts termites and other types of insects. Individuals will need to pay particular attention to the hardware used to join the fence together.

Over time, wood fencing will begin to dull and take on a gray, washed out appearance. It will need to be primed and painted or stained. Wood is also prone to cracking and splitting. It will shrink slightly after installation as it dries, which can leave gaps where its joined together. Fencing and gates can swell after a heavy rain, making gates harder to open.

People look forward to erecting their very own fence for privacy, safety, security and curb appeal. What they may not realize is that their neighbor might also has a stake in the fence and it may be considered shared property. It’s just one of the reasons that individuals need to thoroughly explore their community’s laws regarding fences prior to contacting a contractor.

The first thing to establish is exactly where their property line runs. That means the property will have to be surveyed. Some municipalities allow fences to be installed directly on the property line, meaning its shared property.

Other locations have a setback rule, indicating that it has to be installed back away from the property line. That would mean relinquishing up to 12 inches of an individual’s usable lawn space. However, if the fence rests entirely on one side of the property line, it belongs to the person that installed the fence.

Depending on the community, individuals may have to notify their neighbor of their intent to install a fence. If fencing is considered shared property, it’s a good idea to inform the neighbors of pertinent laws, especially since they’ll be equally liable for the structure’s upkeep.

It’s a responsibility and expense a neighbor may not be prepared to shoulder for any number of reasons, particularly since they won’t have any say in what type of fence is being installed. A fence isn’t so much of a problem if it’s just going across the front of a property. For those enclosing their entire yard, they’ll have to notify any neighbor whose property adjoins where the fence will be constructed.

If it’s a shared fence, neighbors will have the right to cut tree branches, trim bushes, and address problems with plants that may be infringing on the structure, as long as it’s on their side of the fence – even if it’s a prized possession of the person who installed the fence.