Help please with Door Entry system

[Clembo]

hoping this is the right place, anybody help me please with wiring up a door entry system in the flats i live in. 14 flats have phones installed to receive calls from visitors. the phones have a buzzer which is operated by the visitor and a button to release the door latch downstairs so visitor can enter the building. at present the system is inoperable, a previous resident dismantled the latch (3 years ago) when his kids had problems gaining entry. the system is wired using telephone cable (twisted pairs) but wired to a choc block (ugh!) in a downstairs cupboard which is prone to damp etc. power to the system is from a stepped down transformer from mains. needs revamping totally as only some buzzers work but no door release or speach through phones or outside mic/speaker.
any diagrams, hints or expert knowledge would be very much appreciated.

 

[brown-nought]

Entry systems are the bain of many flats - with 14 flats do you have a managing agent? Its really going to be down to them to solve by bringing in a professional installer.

It sounds likely you will need a new system - new handsets etc. All you want to hope is that it's does not need new wiring as that will add to the cost / disruption. Most systems use 4 - 8 way wiring ( 4 is the norm for audio only).

This probably isn't going to be a DIY solvable job - if for no other reason than dealing with 14 different flats you are bound to upset someone/ their decor - you have to live with them - professionals don't!

Also the landlord / freeholder has an obligation to ensure the communal wiring is safe / inspected.

 

[Clembo]

thanks brown-nought for your reply, i agree this is a problem. i am a computer network installation man by trade and my next door neighbour/good friend, is the flats manager. we are also the 'landlord' freeholders (x14) the wiring is in good condition from flats to junction but i wanted to install a proper junction terminal rather than the choc block thats there.
it was all working until that departed owner disconnected the door latch and now time has passed i wonder if someone else has had a go, it looks a mess. thanks again