10 condo security tips

What is condo security?

Condo security is the collection of systems, policies, and daily practices that help protect residents in a condominium community. Condo security can include physical features that restrict access to shared spaces and day-to-day procedures that support safe movement through the building. Board members often work with condo management companies and qualified vendors to choose systems that align with the building’s layout, budget, and condo bylaws.

This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or real estate advice. Laws change frequently and vary by province. Readers should consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to their individual circumstances.
 

Why is condo security important?

All condo corporations should have resident safety at the top of their list. Condo management companies and board members alike have a responsibility to protect the common property and confirm that the condo is safe and secure. Residents want to feel that their management company cares about them and their well-being, leading to a happier community.

This isn't news to anyone — all properties have condo security measures in place. However, these measures should go beyond necessary steps since criminals can quickly enter the building through walkways or common areas, so security must be alert and aware of any peculiar situations. It is recommended that the building management company update these measures often so that they pass a specific evaluation.
 

10 condo security tips

Here are some suggestions that should help in improving safety and security.

1. Strengthen access control at main entries

   Strengthening access control is one of the most effective ways to support condo security. Many buildings use key fobs or staffed lobbies for consistent monitoring of who’s entering the property and to help direct guests. Regular reviews of how residents and guests enter the property make it easier to identify features that need updates.
    

2. Improve lighting in common areas

   Lighting upgrades can help residents feel more comfortable using parking areas, walkways, and amenity spaces during evening hours. Boards often review existing lighting during routine maintenance walks to identify areas that may benefit from stronger coverage. Replacing older fixtures with brighter, energy-efficient options can also reduce long-term costs and support better visibility for cameras and staff.
    

3. Maintain camera systems

   Camera systems can make it easier for boards to review incidents and monitor activity in shared areas. These systems must follow applicable privacy laws, so boards should consult legal counsel before deciding on camera placement and video retention periods. When managed appropriately, cameras provide valuable support for documenting events and resolving questions about building activity. Boards that schedule regular functionality checks often catch issues early, such as blurry lenses or misaligned mounts, which helps keep footage usable when it is needed most. Learn more about creating a property maintenance plan.
    

4. Review your systems regularly

   Regularly audit residents’ key fobs and security cards, cancelling any that are no longer valid. Removing inactive or unreturned credentials helps maintain an accurate list of active users and reduces unnecessary risk during move-outs or ownership changes.
    

5. Dispose of storage signs

   When residents move in, walk them through where they can leave storage items such as bicycles. Having a sign that says "bicycle storage" is only asking for trouble.
    

6. Limit visibility into lower-level spaces

   Reducing visibility into ground-floor areas can help deter break-ins. Frosted or obscured windows help prevent outsiders from seeing what’s inside and may reduce the chances that someone will target the building.
    

7. Encourage resident awareness

   Resident awareness strengthens condo security by helping residents play an active role in the safety of their building. Simple habits such as closing doors behind them, reporting concerns promptly, and monitoring personal belongings can make a noticeable difference over time. Management teams can support this effort by sharing reminders in newsletters and creating channels for residents to report maintenance or access-related issues.
    

8. Create a package room

   Creating a dedicated package room supports condo security by giving deliveries a controlled location rather than allowing items to be left in hallways or unsecured lobbies. A well-planned space can include clear labelling and access rules that align with the building’s overall security approach. Boards often review how deliveries flow through the property to determine the best location and layout. Once the room is established, a condo management team can help monitor volume and adjust procedures when delivery patterns shift during busy seasons.
    

9. Don't hold or open the door for strangers

   It's easy to feel empathetic when someone says, "Can you hold the door open? I forgot my keys!" You don't want to seem rude, especially if the person looks "harmless." However, looks can be deceiving. Try to stand your ground and let them know that you're unable to do so for safety reasons and to call the resident they're there to see. Remember, you are also responsible for your neighbours' safety, and letting strangers in could turn out to be a big mistake. If a security guard or concierge is there, ask them for assistance since they will have more authority to deal with the situation. If the stranger becomes angry or threatens you, call the police.
    

10. Strengthen contractor and vendor protocols

    With effective vendor management, condo boards can clarify how outside workers access the building and where they are permitted to go. Many communities require contractors to check in, wear visible identification, and follow time-of-day limits that help reduce disruptions. Boards often review vendor access logs to confirm that scheduled work aligns with expectations and that no one remains onsite longer than needed. A condo management team can coordinate communication with vendors and help the board track on-site activity.

As mentioned in the beginning, a safe condo is a happy condo. Keep these tips in mind to minimize your residents' risk and maximize their safety. Now that you've read about condo safety, learn how to protect yourself and your residents against cyberattacks.

For more information on condo security, contact FirstService Residential, Alberta's leading condo management company.