As urban skylines continue to climb, supertall condominium towers—those reaching over 65 stories or 250 meters—are increasingly prominent in cities like Toronto. These architectural giants offer breathtaking views and upscale amenities, making them a tempting choice for urban dwellers. However, anyone considering condo living in a supertall development should understand the unique challenges these buildings present.
1. Elevated Maintenance and Repair Costs
Supertall condominiums demand significantly more upkeep than traditional high-rises. Routine tasks like window cleaning or HVAC repairs require specialized equipment—sometimes even rooftop cranes. The cost of maintaining these essential systems can run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Naturally, these expenses are passed on to residents through higher condo maintenance fees. For those seeking cost-effective condo living, this could be a major drawback.
2. Elevator Congestion and Operational Downtime
In densely populated condo communities housed in supertall buildings, elevator wait times can become a daily frustration. With dozens of floors to serve, it’s common for elevators to be full before reaching lower or mid-level units. When elevators are down for maintenance or reserved for move-ins, the issue intensifies. The condo corporation must invest heavily in maintaining and occasionally replacing high-speed elevators, which adds another layer to long-term operational costs.
3. Structural and Wind-Related Discomfort
Living high above the city can have its downsides—literally. Strong winds at upper elevations can cause noticeable building sway, making some residents uncomfortable. Balcony use becomes impractical due to powerful gusts, and wind noise can impact quality of life. Even closing balcony doors can require extra effort, affecting the day-to-day comfort of condo living.
4. Overcrowded Shared Amenities
One of the main attractions of modern condo communities is access to shared amenities like gyms, lounges, and pools. However, in a supertall condominium, these spaces may struggle to support the sheer volume of residents. Overcrowding reduces convenience and can lead to frustration, especially when amenity access is one of the selling points for higher condo maintenance fees.
5. Limited Views and Livability Challenges
While penthouse units boast sweeping cityscapes, many lower and mid-level condos in supertall towers have obstructed views due to surrounding skyscrapers. Moreover, some units are exposed to excessive sunlight and heat retention, which impacts energy efficiency and overall livability. For buyers drawn to the idea of scenic condo living, the reality may fall short of expectations.
6. Costly Renovations on the Horizon
Although no residential supertall condominium has yet undergone a full renovation, examples from the commercial sector show what may be in store. Toronto’s First Canadian Place underwent a $100 million exterior overhaul in 2012. As these residential towers age, the condo corporation will eventually need to undertake similar massive repairs—costs that could lead to skyrocketing condo fees and impact long-term affordability for owners.
Supertall condominiums offer a striking vision of luxury urban life, with dramatic views and state-of-the-art features. But the reality of living in one of these vertical communities involves more than just glamour. From rising condo maintenance fees to long-term structural challenges, potential buyers need to assess whether the lifestyle—and the financial commitment—aligns with their goals. Before joining a supertall condo community, it’s worth taking a closer look behind the curtain.
