What to expect before, during, and after a full-scope evaluation
Security assessments are becoming a core part of smart property management. But for many commercial real estate owners and managers, it is not always clear what actually happens during one. This blog breaks down the process, what happens before the assessment begins, what is reviewed on-site, and what comes next, so you know exactly what to expect and how to get the most value from your next assessment.
Before the Assessment: Planning and Discovery
Every successful assessment starts with alignment. During this early stage, your assessment partner will:
- Review the scope of your property or portfolio
- Understand your building systems, tenant population, and operating environment
- Identify concerns or incidents that may have prompted the assessment
- Clarify any insurance or compliance requirements
- Coordinate logistics to minimize disruption to tenants and staff
This is also when you’ll share any existing documentation, floor plans, security policies, or vendor lists that may help inform the review.
During the Assessment: On-Site and Digital Evaluation
Once the planning is complete, the hands-on evaluation begins. A comprehensive CRE assessment typically includes:
Physical Walkthrough
- Review of guard presence, access points, visitor flow, and emergency procedures
- Inspection of lighting, signage, parking areas, stairwells, and entrances
- Identification of blind spots or public access risks
Technology Review
- Testing of access control systems, cameras, intercoms, and alarms
- Evaluation of how your systems work together
- Identification of outdated or underperforming devices
Cybersecurity Check
- Review of connected building systems and vendor access
- Scanning for vulnerabilities in your networks or tenant-facing tools
- Analysis of how your digital infrastructure is protected
This phase may also include interviews with staff or partners to understand how systems are used in daily operations.
After the Assessment: Insights and Action Steps
Once the evaluation is complete, your assessment team will deliver a detailed report. This typically includes:
- A summary of key findings across physical, technology, and cyber categories
- Visual documentation of issues or risks
- A list of prioritized recommendations based on risk level and business impact
- Guidance on next steps, such as upgrades, training, or policy adjustments
Many CRE leaders use this report as a roadmap for annual planning, budget proposals, and risk management discussions.
What to Expect from a Trusted Assessment Partner
The right partner does more than point out flaws. They:
- Collaborate with you to solve problems
- Respect the needs of tenants and building staff
- Offer clear, practical steps without unnecessary complexity
- Understand how CRE buildings function from street level to the cloud
Final Thoughts
Security assessments are not about checking boxes. They are about gaining clarity, reducing liability, and protecting the people and operations inside your building. By understanding what happens before, during, and after the process, you can approach your next assessment with confidence and purpose.
If you are ready to take the next step in securing your commercial real estate portfolio, reach out to schedule an assessment consultation today.
