Understanding Your Responsibility as a Property Owner for Gate System Safety

Automated gate systems are more than just convenience features; they are mechanical and electrical devices that operate in public or semi-public spaces. When not properly installed or maintained, they can pose serious safety risks to people, vehicles, and property. That’s why, as a property owner, you are not just an end-user, you are also legally and ethically responsible for ensuring that your gate system operates safely and complies with current safety standards.

This article explores what those responsibilities entail and how to meet them effectively to avoid liabilities, protect your investment, and keep everyone safe.

Why Gate System Safety Is a Legal Obligation

Whether you're managing a residential driveway, an apartment complex, a business park, or a gated community, the gate on your property is your legal responsibility. If it malfunctions and causes damage or injury, you may be held liable, especially if the gate system wasn’t designed, installed, or maintained according to accepted safety standards.

• Premises liability laws can apply if someone is hurt by a gate on your property.

• In commercial and multi-residential settings, tenants, visitors, and service personnel have the right to expect safe access.

• Failure to meet known safety standards like UL 325 and ASTM F2200 can lead to legal consequences, especially if there's an injury or fatality.

Core Responsibilities of the Property Owner

As the property owner or manager, your responsibilities fall into four key areas: specification, installation, maintenance, and ongoing compliance.

1. Choosing Certified Professionals

Your duty begins with hiring the right team. Gate systems must be designed and installed by certified professionals familiar with:

• UL 325 compliance (entrapment protection, labeling, control mechanisms)

• ASTM F2200 construction standards (clearances, design limits, mesh spacing)

• Local electrical codes and zoning laws

• Safety device integration (photo eyes, edge sensors, loop detectors)

Avoid using general contractors or untrained personnel for gate automation. They may not be aware of the specialized safety measures required.

2. Ensuring the Use of Safety Equipment

By law, UL 325-compliant systems must include at least two independent entrapment protection devices.

As a property owner, you are responsible for ensuring:

• Safety sensors are installed, aligned, and working

• Gates reverse when obstacles are detected

• Manual release mechanisms are accessible and functional

• Warning signage and alerts (audible/visual) are visible and operational

Skipping these features for budget reasons is a risk that can’t be justified.

3. Maintaining the System Regularly

Maintenance isn’t optional, it’s a critical part of your responsibility. Just like a car or elevator, an automated gate needs inspection and service.

Create a maintenance schedule that includes:

• Monthly testing of sensors and auto-reverse functions

• Visual inspections for physical wear and loose hardware

• Seasonal checks on motors, lubrication, and weather damage

• Professional inspections at least once a year

Maintenance records can protect you in the event of an incident by showing that you took reasonable steps to keep the system safe.

4. Updating the System When Needed

Technology and safety standards evolve. If your gate system is more than a few years old, it may no longer meet compliance requirements.

As the owner, you should:

• Request a safety audit from a certified technician

• Upgrade outdated operators or access control panels

• Replace damaged or obsolete safety devices

• Retrofit old gates to meet ASTM F2200 standards if necessary

Being proactive helps you stay ahead of risks and reduce liability exposure.

Special Considerations for Shared or Commercial Properties

If you own or manage a commercial building, HOA community, or shared facility, the responsibilities increase:

• Inform residents or users of safety features and proper usage

• Display instructions and safety notices at the gate

• Provide access to emergency responders

• Appoint someone to oversee gate operation and maintenance records

Failing to implement these basic steps can lead to accidents and lawsuits.

Real-World Legal Cases

Across the country, lawsuits involving faulty or non-compliant automated gates have resulted in substantial payouts for injury or death. In most of these cases, the liability fell on the property owner, —not the installer—because the owner failed to inspect, maintain, or update the system after installation.

Don’t let inaction turn into negligence. If your gate causes harm, not knowing the rules is not a valid defense.

Partnering with ACSE: Ensuring Peace of Mind

At ACSE, we not only design and install systems that comply with UL 325 and ASTM F2200—we help property owners understand their responsibilities from day one. Our certified team:

• Provides site assessments and safety audits

• Recommends upgrades or retrofits

• Offers professional maintenance programs

• Educates clients on safe operation and code compliance

Choosing ACSE means investing in safety, reliability, and peace of mind. Whether you’re building new or reviewing an existing system, we help you stay compliant—and protected.

Are you confident that your automated gate system is safe and compliant?
Let ACSE help you meet your legal responsibilities and ensure the safety of your property.

To learn more or schedule a consultation with our design and installation team, send us an email at [email protected].