Security and privacy don’t have to be mutually exclusive
When deciding whether condo living is right for you, do your research on the options available
The great debate on condo living for those who have lived in detached homes is whether it will intensify interactions with neighbours.
Private people may fear moving to a condo will bring a level of intrusiveness, while others think it will enhance their sense of security.
The best part about closer quarters is that condo communities often become like extended families, where the members look out and care for one another. This can give residents a real sense of security and many seek this kind of environment when purchasing.
This is not to say the facility itself cannot offer privacy.
You are particularly able to maintain a higher level of privacy if your unit has amenities that allow you to avoid common areas. For example, terraces mean you do not have to visit rooftop or courtyard gardens for exposure to the outdoors.
Of course, many people want social interaction and an active community life within the convenience of their building, especially as temperatures drop. The upshot is you can be as involved in your building community as you would like.
Whether or not you have close friends living in your building, you can achieve a high level of security. Consider developing a neighbourhood watch-type program, where friends check on each other’s units when someone is out of town.
If you would rather leave your security to building design and security staff, this is another option. Here are some things to consider to ensure your building offers maximum security.
Hold the door
Even in a building with a concierge and entry codes, part of the security rests with residents. I enter many condos each week where people hold the door open for me, often with a smile and never asking, “Who are you?”
Though the door openers are being friendly and helpful, they really need to ask the important question. In large developments, it’s highly unlikely you will get to know every neighbour, so it behooves you to find out if they live in the building before admitting them. It really is up to condo residents and their guests to make sure the entrance opens only for authorized visitors.
The drive-in
The same principles apply when entering or exiting your garage. Two condo developments I know of had intruders enter via the buildings’ garages after residents drove in or out.
When the door closes automatically behind you, it’s easy to drive off without another thought. The buildings in question eliminated this avenue to crime by placing cameras by the garage doors and instructing residents to watch the doors close behind them.In addition, the condo corporation installed locks on all interior doorways.
Instead of waiting for a problem like this, be proactive.
Today, developers are considering new ways to make residents feel safe. Some have welllit garages, which were not the norm years go. Other buildings have emergency phone stations in common areas. And still others have concierge services to help residents and make the development feel more secure.
When shopping for a condo, make sure you explore the security issues and concerns associated with the neighbourhood and get the lowdown on the security being offered by the developer you choose.