From simple audio intercoms to video entry, fob access, and mobile app door release. Understand the options, see what drives the cost, and get competitive quotes for supply and installation.
A door entry panel connects to your phone system either through an ATA (analogue terminal adapter) or as a generic SIP endpoint. When someone presses the button, it dials an extension or a group of phones. Answer the call, and if the panel is wired to the door release mechanism, you can open the door from your handset, app, or indoor unit. This means the same system that runs your business calls also handles your door.
Door entry covers a wide range of systems. The right one depends on whether you need video, how many separate units or businesses share the entrance, and how you want people to gain access. Here are the main options to compare.
Voice-only door entry. The visitor presses a button, you speak to them and release the door. The most cost-effective option for a single business or entrance.
Adds a camera so you can see who is at the door before you open it. Available as a panel-to-handset, app, or wall-mounted unit. Strong choice where security matters.
For buildings with multiple businesses or flats. Each button calls a different occupant directly. Modular, so the panel scales to the number of units sharing the entrance.
Instead of a button per unit, visitors dial the flat or unit number on a keypad to call it. Ideal for larger multi-dwelling or multi-tenant buildings.
A digital display lets visitors search by name or unit number to find who they want. The most user-friendly option for larger buildings with changing occupants.
Residents and staff use an RFID fob to gain entry without calling. Fobs can be issued, revoked, and scheduled centrally.
Access by entering a PIN on the keypad. Codes can be issued per person and changed at any time — useful for staff, contractors, or temporary access.
Restrict access by time. For example, allow cleaners or contractors in only during set hours, and deny access outside them. Applies to fobs and PIN codes.
Once a visitor calls, you can answer and release the door in several ways. Many businesses combine more than one, so the door can always be answered whether someone is at their desk, on the move, or in another part of the building.
The door panel calls a phone extension or a group of phones. Answer on your existing handset and release the door with a key press. No extra hardware needed.
Answer the door, see the video, and release the door from your phone wherever you are. Very popular for businesses where staff move around or work off-site. Subscription licence-based.
An indoor unit mounted on the wall lets you see the caller and release the door. Wireless, because hard-wiring indoor units is expensive and disruptive to install.
Door entry systems are quoted per installation — there is no standard price because every site is different. As a comparison guide, the main factors that affect cost are:
Video panels and units cost more than audio-only. The jump is worth it where seeing the visitor matters.
A single-business audio panel is far cheaper than an 8-button or keypad-dial system for a multi-tenant building.
Adding fob readers, keypads, and time-based access control increases hardware and configuration cost.
Desk extension answering is included with your phone system. App licences and wireless wall units add ongoing or one-off cost.
Running cable is often the largest variable. Wireless indoor units exist precisely because hard-wiring is expensive.
Access, power availability, and the door release mechanism all affect the install. A survey confirms the real cost.
Tell us about your building and what you need. We will compare options and come back with competitive quotes for supply and installation.
Enquire nowAudio and video intercoms · fob, keypad and app access · multi-tenant and single-business · supply, install and configure