Living and working as a locksmith in North York, I get a unique perspective on how people protect their homes. Condos are a big part of life here, from the high-rises along Yonge Street near Sheppard, to the growing developments around Finch, and the quieter mid-rise communities near Don Mills. With so many people choosing condo living, I’ve noticed clear trends in what residents are concerned about and how security upgrades are changing to keep up.
I want to share a few of those insights today, because if you’re living in a condo here in North York, these are the things I’d recommend you think about.
Why Condo Security Feels Different in North York
Condo living offers a sense of community and convenience, but it also comes with unique risks. Unlike a detached home, you’ve got dozens, sometimes hundreds, of neighbors sharing the same building. That means shared entryways, underground parking, delivery lobbies, and even visitors walking in and out all day.
I’ve had more than one client tell me, “I thought living in a condo meant I didn’t need to worry about security.” But the truth is, I’ve seen packages stolen right from lobby shelves in buildings near Bayview Village. I’ve been called out to replace locks after someone propped open a side entrance and strangers wandered in. Security here isn’t just about your own unit, it’s about the entire building ecosystem.
Trend 1: Smart Access Systems Are Becoming Standard
Many North York condos are now moving toward electronic fobs, mobile entry apps, and even biometric scanners. Buildings along Yonge and Sheppard, especially newer ones, are advertising “smart security” as a selling point.
From my perspective, this is a good step forward, but it’s not perfect. I’ve seen cases where a lost fob was never deactivated, and months later it was still opening doors. That’s why I always tell residents: don’t assume the building system is flawless. If you lose a fob, report it immediately. And if your unit still has an old keyed lock, upgrading to a modern smart lock that integrates with the condo system can give you more control over who comes and goes.
Trend 2: Deliveries Are the Weakest Link
One of the biggest changes I’ve noticed in North York condos is the sheer volume of deliveries. Food, groceries, online shopping. it never stops. I’ve walked into condo lobbies near Downsview and seen delivery bags stacked by the dozen, completely unattended. It only takes one opportunistic person slipping through the door to walk off with them.
That’s why many condos are investing in secure package lockers. If your building doesn’t have them, I’d suggest talking to management. On a personal level, I also recommend condo residents use doorbell cameras inside their units. Even though it’s an apartment-style setup, I’ve installed peephole cameras for North York clients that give a clear view of anyone at the door.
Trend 3: Unit-Level Upgrades Are Being Overlooked
This is probably the part I emphasize the most when I talk to condo residents. Your building may have cameras, concierge, and fobs, but at the end of the day, your own unit door is the last line of defense.
I remember working with a couple in a building near Empress Walk. They were surprised when I showed them how flimsy their strike plate was. The lock itself looked fine, but with just half-inch screws into a hollow frame, a solid kick would have been enough to force the door.
Here’s what I always recommend:
- Upgrade to a solid-core door if possible (many condos allow this if it matches the exterior design).
- Use a Grade 1 deadbolt, not just the default lock.
- Reinforce strike plates with 3-inch screws anchored into the stud.
- Add a secondary lock, like a chain or swing bar, for extra control when answering the door.
It’s these unit-level upgrades that make the real difference.
Trend 4: Balcony and Window Awareness
This one surprises people. I’ve seen incidents, especially in mid-rise condos around York Mills, where intruders actually accessed units through balconies or sliding doors. If your condo has a balcony, you should treat that door like a front entrance.
I recommend adding a secondary sliding door lock or a security bar that prevents it from being opened from outside. Even something as simple as a dowel rod in the track can stop an intruder from sliding it open.
What I Tell North York Condo Residents
When I sit down with condo owners in this area, my advice usually comes down to this: don’t assume your building covers everything. Concierge staff, cameras, and fobs are good, but they don’t replace personal security.
Your unit is your responsibility. A better lock, a reinforced door, and some awareness about deliveries and shared spaces go a long way.
I’ve been doing this long enough to know that peace of mind doesn’t come from just one upgrade. It comes from layering small, practical steps together, and making sure your home, even in a busy condo tower, feels safe and secure.
Secured Condo Living in North York
North York is growing fast. With more condos going up every year, I expect to see even more focus on shared security systems, delivery management, and smart tech. Regardless of whether you have high-tech systems or not, what matters most if the lock on your own door.
I’ve helped families near Sheppard-Yonge, young professionals in new Finch-area towers, and long-time residents in Don Mills condos all make upgrades that fit their lifestyle. My role requires more than installing hardware. I help people feel secure in the place they call home.
If you’re living in a North York condo, take a moment to look at your front door, your balcony, your delivery setup. Ask yourself, “Would this stop someone determined to get in?” If the answer makes you pause, then it’s worth making a change. And that’s where I’m here to help.
