"The building is responsible for the first level of security," commented one writer. "That would be in the lobby or the garage. The tenant is responsible thereafter."

So, if management is hands-off the problem, it follows that tenants should foot the bill for any security upgrade--although most respondents (59%) said the pass-alongs should not be disbursed in equal measure. Only 41% thought that costs should be cut evenly straight across the board--regardless of the tenant's degree of security need.

But if management can take a hands-off approach when the alarms sound, many of our respondents feel that the agent is responsible at least for thorough training before the fact. The manager should "establish contingency plans, with drills and practices, and educate tenants," wrote one commentator.

"I think it comes down to a lot of training on what to do and what not to do," agreed another participant. "Actually running through procedures on how to evacuate a building, where to go when you are outside and what steps you should take for the individual's safety when you evacuate a building or area. Other training should be given on what to look for prior to an emergency and what to do if you see something suspicious."

Of course, no level of security can qualm the fears of those naturally prone to be ill-at-ease. As one nail-biting writer pointed out: "If a terrorist wants to get into a building, he will find a way."

Instant Insights /

GlobeSt.com Quick Survey: It's Every Man for Himself When It Comes to Tenant Security

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