Project Overview
Our team conducted an independent physical security risk assessment for a mixed-use condominium building located in downtown Toronto. The property includes residential units, a large single retail tenant, and a parking garage shared by both residents and the public. Property management engaged our team to identify physical security vulnerabilities, evaluate existing controls, and support improved security planning across residential, commercial, and public-use areas.
Scope of Work
The assessment focused on all key areas of the property, including residential spaces, commercial tenancy areas, and shared public infrastructure. Key objectives included:
- Reviewing access control systems serving residential and commercial areas.
- Evaluating parking garage operations, including public and tenant access points.
- Assessing CCTV and surveillance coverage throughout the building.
- Inspecting lighting levels, entry points, and perimeter security measures.
- Evaluating the application of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles to reduce risk through building design and layout.
- Reviewing local crime trends and potential external threats affecting the property.
Methodology
- Daytime and Night-Time Site Assessments
Our team conducted on-site walkthroughs during both daytime and night-time conditions to observe operational practices, visibility, lighting effectiveness, and security risks after dark. - Access Control and Parking Operations Review
Residential, commercial, and parking access controls were evaluated to identify vulnerabilities related to credential management, public access separation, and unauthorized entry risks. - Surveillance and Perimeter Evaluation
CCTV camera placement, coverage areas, and monitoring effectiveness were assessed alongside perimeter controls and building entry points. - CPTED and Threat Analysis
The site was reviewed using CPTED principles to assess how environmental design, sightlines, lighting, and layout influenced safety and risk. Local crime trends were analyzed to inform threat identification and risk context.
Outcomes
- Identification of physical security vulnerabilities across residential, commercial, and shared public areas.
- An evaluation of the effectiveness of existing access control, surveillance, and lighting systems.
- CPTED-based observations highlighting opportunities to reduce risk through environmental and operational improvements.
- Clear, unbiased recommendations to support improved security planning and risk mitigation.
Impact
The assessment provided property management with a clear understanding of physical security risks and practical, prioritized recommendations for improvement. The findings supported informed decision-making, enhanced resident and public safety, and strengthened the overall security posture of a complex mixed-use urban property.