A condominium on Broadway in Downtown Manhattan needed a major technology upgrade and choose our UniFi for Condos package. It was constructed in 1909. Its old Hikvision cameras were unreliable, and building management also requested wireless access in common areas. Adding floodlights on the roof posed another challenge. This 12-story property wanted modern security without tearing open walls or disturbing residents. The UniFi Nerds tackled these goals by using existing infrastructure, flexible switches, and well-planned camera placement. Our approach minimized disruptions and delivered a robust, cost-effective solution.
UniFi for Condos – Project Overview
The condo board sought a provider that understood both surveillance systems and networking. Other vendors recommended intrusive rewiring projects, which required scaffolding and permits. We proposed a simpler path by reusing existing runs and integrating UniFi equipment. Management hoped to replace obsolete cameras with new devices that captured every angle. They also needed floodlights on the roof for added security. A second-floor fire escape remained a trouble spot, where vandals and homeless individuals found easy access. Building management wanted a camera watching that escape and a floodlight that triggered with motion.
Goals and Objectives
The client outlined five main objectives:
- Remove and replace older Hikvision cameras.
- Install roof cameras for 360-degree visibility.
- Add UniFi Protect floodlights to deter unwanted nighttime activity.
- Deploy wireless connectivity in common areas without invasive construction.
- Position a camera and motion-triggered floodlight on the second-floor fire escape.
Building management also demanded a user-friendly monitoring experience. They wanted a single interface for all cameras and floodlights, plus a stable network that avoided monthly fees. Security concerns and aesthetic preferences factored into every decision.
Assessment and Planning
We first met the client over Zoom to understand the layout and existing cables. An on-site walkthrough followed, because the superintendent’s schedule made remote inspection incomplete. During that visit, our team identified cable routes from the basement to the roof. We also noted potential choke points where new wiring seemed impossible without extensive demolition. This process confirmed that reusing existing runs would be the best solution.
We also discovered a few unused coaxial lines and older Ethernet cables in good condition. Those lines provided a foundation for installing UniFi Flex switches near critical spots. By tapping into these hidden resources, we avoided drilling new conduit paths and disturbing tenants. Each camera position and floodlight location was mapped to ensure proper angles and motion coverage.
UniFi Products Deployed
Key elements of this installation included:
- UniFi AI 360 and G5 Bullet Cameras: These devices offered high-resolution video and wide-angle coverage. The AI 360 captured panoramic views on the rooftop, 2nd floor fire escape, and front entrance.
- UniFi Protect Floodlights: Management requested bright, motion-triggered lights to deter intruders at night. These lights tied into the same controller as the cameras.
- UniFi Dream Machine Pro (UDM Pro): This served as the main gateway and unified controller for all devices. It also functioned as a security appliance and VLAN manager.
- UniFi NVR Pro: This device handled video recording and camera management. Building staff could review footage without paying monthly fees to an external vendor.
- UniFi Flex Switches: We used these compact switches in outdoor enclosures to split network connections. Their small form factor and PoE support allowed discrete placement.
Installation Challenges
Bringing cables from the basement to the roof proved the most complex hurdle. This 12-story building had minimal accessible conduits. Installing new conduits would have required scaffolding, permits, and heavy drilling. That process could have delayed the project by months and disturbed residents.
We instead leveraged existing cable runs on the rooftop. Those lines had enough bandwidth to support cameras and floodlights once we added UniFi Flex switches. This strategy avoided major construction, minimized costs, and kept daily life in the condo largely unaffected.
UniFi for Condos: Overcoming Obstacles
Our team placed Flex switches in weatherproof enclosures. We then routed network traffic to roof cameras and floodlights using Cat6 cables that connected through the existing lines. A simple PoE pass-through supplied power to each device without the need for new electrical circuits. For the second-floor fire escape, we installed a G5 Bullet camera and UniFi Protect floodlight that triggered together whenever motion was detected. This pairing improved night visibility and boosted security around a known vulnerable area.
In the basement, we set up the UniFi Dream Machine Pro and NVR Pro. Building staff gained an all-in-one dashboard to view live streams, manage event triggers, and access recorded footage. They no longer relied on outdated software or external services. This local approach gave them direct control over their data, with no recurring subscription costs.
Project Outcome
The condominium now benefits from modern security and seamless wireless coverage in common areas. Residents feel safer knowing cameras monitor the roof, basement, and entrances. The motion-triggered floodlights provide a clear deterrent against trespassers, especially around the fire escape. Management appreciates the intuitive interface for monitoring all cameras in one place. Repairs or re-aims have proven straightforward, thanks to the user-friendly UniFi platform.
Our team revisited the site a few times for minor camera adjustments. One AI 360 camera broke after a contractor mishandled it, but we replaced it under warranty. Overall, the building experiences fewer security concerns, and residents enjoy stronger confidence in their safety.
Final Thoughts
This project demonstrates how UniFi condo solutions adapt to older buildings with minimal disruption. Many apartments, condos, or co-ops consider major renovations to improve security. A well-planned approach often reveals existing cables that can support advanced gear. Our experience on Broadway shows that new technology does not always require opening walls or installing expensive conduits. By using a unifi ecosystem, owners gain reliable monitoring, floodlight control, and Wi-Fi access without burdensome fees. If your property needs similar upgrades, contact The UniFi Nerds for a free consultation.
