By BuildMan · Condo handyman from $150 flat · Updated
In most Toronto condos, owners are responsible for everything inside their unit's walls, while the corporation handles the structure, common elements and shared systems such as plumbing stacks. Safe DIY jobs include swapping a faucet, assembling furniture and replacing an existing light fixture. Hire a condo handyman for mounting a TV or mirror on concrete, since many towers use post-tension slabs, for work where a leak could reach the unit below, and for jobs needing service-elevator booking.
Toronto is a condo city, and condo repairs come with rules and quirks that houses don't. Here's how to handle the common jobs — and where the line is between a weekend fix and a call to a condo handyman.
Know what's yours to fix
In most condos you're responsible for everything inside your unit's walls; the corporation handles the structure, common elements and what's behind them. Anything involving plumbing stacks, the building envelope, or shared systems is the corporation's — don't touch it, and report it. When in doubt, check your declaration and rules, or ask management. The City of Toronto and your condo board set the framework.
Drilling into concrete — carefully
This is the big one. Many Toronto towers use post-tension concrete slabs with steel cables inside. Drilling blindly into a ceiling or certain walls can be dangerous and is often prohibited. Feature walls are usually fine with the right masonry bit and anchors, but if you're unsure which wall is structural, that's exactly when to hire someone who knows condos.
Safe DIY in a condo
- Swapping a faucet or shower head (with the unit's shut-off)
- Assembling furniture and hanging light art on drywall
- Replacing a light fixture where wiring already exists
- Installing tension-rod blinds and small shelves
When to hire a pro
- Mounting a TV or heavy mirror on concrete or block
- Anything needing service-elevator booking or common-area protection
- Fixture or plumbing work where a leak would affect the unit below
- Jobs on a deadline (a move-in or a rental turnover)
Don't forget the logistics
Condos require booking the service elevator for deliveries and bigger jobs, protecting hallways, and respecting quiet hours. A handyman who works in condos daily handles all of it — one reason a pro is often worth it even for a job you could technically do yourself.
Condo repairs, done by the book
TV mounting on concrete, fixtures, blinds and repairs — with elevator bookings handled. From $150 flat.
Get My Free Quote →Frequently asked questions
Can I drill into my condo wall to mount a TV?
Usually yes on an interior feature wall, using a masonry bit and the correct anchors — but avoid drilling into post-tension concrete ceilings/slabs. If you're unsure which walls are safe, hire a condo-experienced handyman.
Who fixes a leak in a condo — me or the building?
Leaks involving the building's plumbing stacks or common elements are the corporation's responsibility; fixtures inside your unit are usually yours. Report anything involving shared systems to management.
Do I need to book the service elevator?
For deliveries and larger jobs, most Toronto condos require a service-elevator booking. We coordinate this with you and your building.
Home builders serving Toronto & the GTA since 2008 — a handyman and renovation company run by professional builders. Licensed, $2M insured and WSIB-covered, with a 5.0★ Google rating from GTA homeowners. More about BuildMan →