Sweaty City, Steady Service –

August with Shelterly ☀️

Summer is in full effect!

Toronto’s turning up the heat, but so are we—on service, support, and seasonal prep. As the city buzzes with street festivals, patio season, and one last push before back-to-school, we’re focused on keeping your properties cool, clean, and running like clockwork.

Whether it’s coordinating AC repairs, prepping fall maintenance, or supporting our shelter partners, August is anything but slow at Shelterly. Let’s finish summer strong, together.

🏙️ Tips for Living in Toronto
in August

  1. Hydrate Like a Local
    Toronto’s heat + humidity is no joke. Keep a reusable water bottle with you and know where the city’s public water stations are.

  2. Use the Shade (and the PATH)
    Escape the heat by walking through the PATH system downtown—or stick to shaded sidewalks and tree-lined routes.

  3. Festival Season Is On
    Check out free or low-cost events like Toronto Caribbean Carnival, and outdoor movie nights in local parks.

  4. AC Rules in Rentals
    If your place doesn’t have AC, ask your landlord if window units are allowed. If they are, install safely and securely—don’t forget support brackets.

  5. Mind the TTC Heat
    Subways and streetcars get toasty. Travel during off-peak hours and bring a handheld fan or cooling towel.

  6. Bug Off!
    Mosquitoes are out—especially in areas near water or parks. Keep windows screened and use citronella on balconies or patios.

  7. Patio Season = Noise Season
    Enjoy Toronto’s patios, but remember: your neighbours might be trying to sleep. Respect quiet hours and report excessive noise through 311 if needed.

  8. Keep Your Apartment Cool Naturally
    Close blinds during peak sun, use fans strategically, and open windows for cross-breeze after sunset.

  9. Watch for Fire Bans
    Planning a weekend getaway? Check city or provincial fire bans before lighting any campfires or BBQs in parks or cottages.

  10. City Programs for Kids & Families
    From splash pads to rec centers, the city offers free and low-cost programs for children all August. Great for parents trying to keep kids busy before school returns.

Our Tenant maintenance guide will be launched next month!

Often, we receive maintenance requests for small issues that can easily be resolved by our tenants. By sending out maintenance staff for easily addressable maintenance items, the cost to operate increases for the property and eventually your rent will increase.

Why not take a minute to read our guide to see how you can take initiative, keep costs and rent increases down, and feel good about handling a task all by yourself!

If you can’t resolve the problem, we will solve it.

Click below to sign into your account and get the help you need.

Safety Starts with You: Be Proactive in Your Home

Tenant safety is a top priority, and it starts with you. Always keep an eye out for potential hazards and take precautions to stay safe. Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors every month - if they do not work, please get in touch with us immediately. If you notice any safety concerns—like faulty locks, broken stairs, or fire risks—report them to our Support Team immediately. Together, we can maintain a secure and comfortable living environment!

Total Summer Mode:

  • 🪟 Keep It Cool Without Spiking the Bill

    Condo: Close blinds during peak sun hours and set your thermostat to 24–25°C for energy efficiency.

    House/Townhouse: Use ceiling fans to circulate cool air and clean A/C filters monthly for optimal performance.

  • 🔄 Inspect & Replace A/C Filters

    Condo: Keep balcony doors closed and avoid leaving food waste in common chute areas.

    House/Townhouse: Inspect for ant trails and wasp nests. Seal cracks and keep compost bins tightly closed.

  • 💦 Water Smart, Not Hard

    Condo: Use a water-saving nozzle for balcony gardening. Report any plumbing leaks immediately.

    House/Townhouse: Water lawns early in the morning or late evening to reduce evaporation and stress on grass.

  • 🔐 Going Away? Secure Your Space

    Condo: Let concierge/security know if you'll be away. Avoid posting vacation details online.
    House/Townhouse: Use timers for lights and ask a neighbour to collect mail or flyers from your porch.

  • 🧹 Summer Deep Clean = Better Air Quality

    Condo: Wipe down A/C vents, balcony rails, and fan blades.

    House/Townhouse: Check for mold in basements and garages. Clean dryer vents to prevent fire risk.

  • 🌻 Enjoy the Outdoors—Responsibly

    Condo: Keep balconies clutter-free, avoid hanging heavy items on rails, and follow BBQ/fire code rules.
    House/Townhouse: Be courteous with outdoor noise, keep front yards tidy, and store bikes and gear neatly.

Now the fun stuff!

🍹 Summer Sips with Shelterly: Sparkling Citrus Mint Cooler 🍊🌿

Posted on July 31, 2025 • by Shelterly Team

There’s no better way to beat the heat than with a crisp, fizzy drink in hand—and even better when you can share it with neighbours or enjoy it on your balcony or backyard. Introducing the Sparkling Citrus Mint Cooler—a bright, bubbly, non-alcoholic drink that’s perfect for summer evenings, BBQs, or just a relaxing afternoon at home.

✨ Why You'll Love It

  • Light and refreshing

  • Kid-friendly & alcohol-free

  • Easy to make in large batches

  • Beautiful enough to impress your guests

🍊 Ingredients (Makes 4 servings)

  • 1 cup fresh orange juice

  • ½ cup fresh lime juice (about 3–4 limes)

  • 2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup (adjust to taste)

  • 2 cups sparkling water or club soda

  • A handful of fresh mint leaves

  • Sliced oranges and limes for garnish

  • Ice cubes for serving

🥄 Directions

  1. Muddle the Mint
    In a large pitcher, gently muddle the mint leaves with the honey or agave to release their flavor.

  2. Mix It Up
    Add the orange juice and lime juice. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.

  3. Add the Sparkle
    Just before serving, pour in the sparkling water. Give it a gentle stir (don’t flatten the fizz!).

  4. Serve & Enjoy
    Fill glasses with ice, pour in your citrus cooler, and garnish with orange/lime slices and a sprig of mint.

🎡 Let’s Go to the EX! | CNE 2025 Kicks Off August 15th

Toronto’s favourite end-of-summer tradition is back from August 15 to September 1, 2025 at Exhibition Place—and it’s bigger than ever! The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) brings together everything we love: outrageous food (Ketchup Cotton Candy, anyone?), wild rides, concerts, shopping pavilions, and the legendary Air Show on Labour Day weekend.

🎟️ Visitor Tips:

  • CNE Grounds Pass: $25 for adults, $20 for youth/seniors

  • After 5 PM special: Discounts on weekdays!

  • Getting there: Take the TTC (Exhibition Loop) or GO Train directly to the fun

  • Must-see: SuperDogs Show, Food Building, Gaming Garage, and the nightly Drone Show

Whether you're in a condo near Liberty Village or a family home uptown, a day at the CNE is worth the trip!

🧃 Shelterly Tip:

Pack water, wear comfy shoes, and go early to avoid the weekend crowds. Your wallet and feet will thank you.

✨ Lobby Goals: The Residences of 88 Scott

When it comes to first impressions, 88 Scott Street doesn’t just raise the bar—it redefines what a condo lobby can be. Recently recognized by Toronto Life as one of the top condo lobbies in the city, this space blends luxury hotel elegance with modern Toronto sophistication.

🏙️ Why It Stands Out:

  • Soaring ceilings and dramatic lighting create a grand, gallery-like entrance

  • A curated mix of sculptural art pieces and warm, textured finishes

  • Cozy-yet-modern lounge areas ideal for remote work or waiting for guests

  • Full-time concierge service adds a boutique hospitality touch

🛋️ Shelterly Tip:

If your condo lobby could use a refresh, this is a perfect example of how design, functionality, and community vibes can all come together. Stylish spaces aren’t just for show—they boost tenant satisfaction and property value too.

Missed a month? Catch up below!