June 2017
Having invested in security doors, locks, fobs, access cards and security personnel, it is surprising to find that most of these measures are circumvented each time someone moves into or out of a condo building.
During a move-in or move-out, it is typical that residents reserve a moving elevator. This elevator generally has a front and back door which grants access to the building. There is also an outer building door by which movers access the building.
These are all access points that should be monitored at all times during a move.
During the move it is common for outer doors to be left open and unattended while movers are in the elevator or suite.
This creates an opportunity for unauthorized individuals to obtain access to nearly any part of a condo building. The individual may be a transient seeking a warm place to rest. It may be an individual intent on theft or damage.
It is impractical to expect regular security personnel to effectively monitor this area during a move while attending to their duties elsewhere in the building. While it is hoped that the resident will supervise these areas during a move, it is more typical that the areas remain unattended for long periods.
The solution used by some condo corporations is to take responsibility for security away from the resident. The corporation may require that additional security be employed to monitor the area during a move-in or move-out with the cost being paid by the resident. Typical cost for a standard three hour window is $80 to $100 with payment required before elevator access is provided.
