July 2017
There is no single approach to condo security. The level of security desired, and the condo corporation’s approach to condo security, is dependent on the views of its residents, their willingness to participate in protection of the property and the budget for this task.
There are three general approaches to condo security utilized by Toronto area condo corporations.
No Physical Presence
The condo corporation takes basic measures to protect property. This includes a reliance on locked doors, electronic security measures, resident vigilance and non-security staffing typically present during daytime hours.
A greater reliance is placed on the vigilance and actions of building residents.
When residents fail to be vigilant or management fails to maintain basic security precautions there is a greater potential for break-ins, theft, damage and other problems.
Third Party Outsourcing
The condo corporation employs a security company that maintains a physical presence in the building. This presence can be 24 hours per day seven days a week, weekdays, or daytime hours. The amount of security, their responsibilities and tasks are determined by the condo corporation.
A physical presence should not be intended to replace basic security precautions such as locked doors, electronic security measures or resident vigilance. The physical presence should be relied upon to provide a level of security, protection, service and convenience that is not possible without a physical presence.
In House Management of Security
Similar to third party outsourcing except that the condo corporation is the employer. The corporation takes on responsibility for hiring, training, vacation or illness fill-ins, and liability associated with the employment of security personnel.
