Thanks to advances in wireless technology, home security is less invasive, more affordable, and more versatile than ever before, with a wide range of add-ons including smart door locks, smoke detectors, and doorbell cameras to help you design a system that suits your needs. It’s also far easier to install, with many battery-powered and solar-powered options that eliminate the need for specialized wiring. 

While most home security systems are aimed at single-family homes with backyards, there’s a growing segment of the industry dedicated to those who live in condos and apartments – paired with condo insurance, it can give you peace of mind while you’re away. Here’s a basic rundown of what you’ll need to know to decide which system is right for you.

Before you begin

If you’re planning on installing cameras that face outside your unit (like a doorbell camera) or making changes to your unit’s door (installing a smart lock, for example) it’s advisable to check your building’s rules to make sure these are allowed - this includes contacting your condo corporation if you're looking to install cameras on the property. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with Canadian privacy laws, which can restrict filming people without their consent.

Choosing a provider

The Canadian home security market is divided between the major telecommunications players and a handful of tech companies, from global giants to smaller security-focused firms. These companies each offer a wide range of services and price points, and some even offer packages specifically designed for condos. Choosing a package from the same provider you use for your internet, cable TV and cellular services could be an appealing option for the sake of keeping things simple, but offerings from tech companies can offer competitive pricing and more flexibility. 

Choosing a setup 

Home security systems come with a wide range of add-ons including smoke/heat detectors, cameras, motion sensors, door and window sensors, and sirens. If you’d like to use your system to keep an eye on your dog while you’re at work, for example, you might want to consider a system with an indoor camera or two. If you frequently have guests and like the idea of being able to unlock your door remotely, a smart lock might be a good idea, if allowed by your condo’s regulations.

Monitored versus non-monitored

Many residential systems offer the option of 24/7 monitoring. This means that if an alarm is triggered (say, a window is opened or a smoke detector goes off while you’re out) someone from the company’s monitoring service will call you and, if needed, dispatch a private security guard to check on your home. Non-monitored systems will send an alert to your smart device, and it’s up to you to investigate the cause. Monitored options are more costly, but offer additional peace of mind.

Cloud storage and backups 

If you’re using a camera you’ll probably want somewhere to store all of the video you’re recording, and that usually means subscribing to a monthly plan for data storage. Subscription options can also cover cellular backup features that will allow your alarm to still function in case of a power outage or disruption to your Wi-Fi service.   

Compatibility 

If you already use a smart device like a thermostat, smart speaker, or home hub, it’s worth checking whether your plan of choice is compatible with your existing setup. Some require you to have a specific smart home hub, while others work with a variety of different smart devices and systems. If you’re committed to a specific brand of smart devices, it might make sense to start by researching which home security provider works best with your brand of choice. 

Installation

Installing a home security system is much easier than it used to be, but it still requires a bit of know-how, depending on the complexity of the system you choose. If you buy a plan from a major telecommunications company, there will usually be an option to have it professionally installed for a fee (or for free if you purchase a bundle with other home services like TV and internet). Other companies might offer you installation instructions instead, leaving you to DIY it or hire your own technician. Either way, a smart home system plus insurance for your condo can go a long way in keeping you informed and secure.

Jeremy Freed is a freelance writer and editor based in Toronto. His writing about fashion, travel, food and design appears in Sharp, Harry and re:Porter magazines, among many others.

Jeremy Freed is a paid spokesperson of Sonnet Insurance.