What to Do if Your Condo Building Deactivates Your Fob
Has your condo building deactivated your fob? This is a problem that some of our customers have encountered, often without warning. While we aren’t able to give legal advice, we can share some real experiences and provide suggestions on how to handle these situations when they arise.
Customer Experiences: Dealing with Deactivated Fobs
Several customers have shared stories with us about finding their key fobs deactivated by condo management with little to no explanation. One customer had moved out of their condo unit and listed it for short sale but continued paying the condo fees. During a routine home inspection, they learned that some renovations carried out didn’t comply with the condo’s regulations. The customer informed management and began correcting the violations, but when they later returned to the condo, their key fob no longer worked. Despite asking the front desk, they were unable to get a clear reason for the deactivation.
In cases like this, it’s essential to understand that condo management typically cannot restrict access to your property without providing notice, even if there are rule violations involved. If you find yourself in a similar situation, it’s important to send a formal request to the management or condo board to have your fob reactivated or to obtain a new one. Always keep a record of any correspondence with the management to ensure your rights to access your unit are maintained.
In another case, a tenant living in a rent-controlled apartment experienced a sudden fob deactivation without prior warning. The situation could be considered an illegal lockout, which is a serious issue. In Ontario, tenants facing this kind of problem can submit an application to the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) for assistance. The LTB can arrange an urgent hearing to address the lockout and help restore access to the rental unit.
If you’ve experienced similar issues with your condo or apartment fob being deactivated, we encourage you to share your story with us. These experiences help others understand their rights and the steps they can take.
Conditions Under Which a Condo Can Deactivate Your Fob
Can your condo building deactivate your fob? Yes, there are specific situations where this can occur. For example, your fob may be deactivated if it’s reported as lost, misused, or suspected to be in the hands of someone unauthorized. Additionally, if a building has specific rules for certain areas (like a gym or pool), these restrictions can be controlled via a fob system. Management can also deactivate an extra fob if your unit has more than the allowed number, in accordance with security protocols set by the building.
Can You Deactivate Your Fob?
If you’re looking to deactivate your own fob, such as when it’s lost or no longer needed, you can refer to our previous article, “Key Fobs Can Be Deactivated: When and How to Disable Your Apartment Access”, which provides some detail on how and when you can deactivate your fob.
FobToronto and MiniFob Services
At FobToronto and MiniFob, we provide fast and reliable copying services for apartment key fobs, traditional keys, and garage door openers. However, it’s important to note that if your original fob is deactivated by condo management, any copies made by us will stop working as well. Unfortunately, we are unable to reactivate a deactivated fob, so you’ll need to speak directly with your condo management to resolve the issue.
Final Thoughts
If your condo building has deactivated your fob, understanding your rights and the steps you should take is crucial. Deactivation may happen for various reasons, but condo management cannot block access to your unit without proper notice. Communication with management and, if necessary, legal advice, are key in resolving these matters. For any key fob copying services or further assistance, FobToronto and MiniFob are here to help.
