CONDO CULTURE

Q We are a small condominium community, and are noticing some vandalism. We cannot afford an expensive security system and were wondering what other alternatives there are.

A The safety and security of the condominium owners and the property should be the No. 1 priority of the board of directors. There are several useful tools that can be implemented when attempting to secure a property. Extra fences, spotlights, lampposts, sensor lights, security guard and surveillance cameras are just a few. Some of these carry a significant price tag and may be unattainable for a smaller condo on a tight budget.

However, one greatly overlooked costfree tool is the eyes and ears of your neighbours. Everyone should be familiar with and be able to identify who lives in the community. A Neighborhood Watch program is a very popular way for neighbours to get to know each other. Who wouldn’t be interested in this type of organization that helps bring security to their complex?

Virtually every police department sponsors this type of program and these have been very successful in many communities. It can be formal or informal, as your condo association chooses. Contact your police department and inquire if they are able to attend an owners’ meeting to describe exactly what the program is and how to operate one in your community. They would be able to provide all the necessary information and paraphernalia to get you started.

Once this program is implemented, the condo corporation would have to purchase signs to place in appropriate areas, such as ground-floor windows. It is imperative they are clearly visible to notify potential vandals that unit owners are watching. Chances of a break-in or vandalism should greatly diminish.