From Film Reels to Fall Leaves—Toronto Does September in Style.

September Shifts: Preparing Your Home for Fall

As September arrives, the days grow cooler, and the evenings stretch a little longer. Just like the shifting leaves, our homes also need attention to stay cozy and efficient. Fall is the perfect time to prepare your space—whether it’s sealing drafts, refreshing your heating systems, or giving a little extra care to everyday comforts. With a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to enjoy the season ahead with peace of mind.

🌆 6 Tips for Living in Toronto This September

  1. Plan for Cooler Evenings – Layer up! Toronto weather can swing from warm afternoons to chilly nights. Keep a jacket handy for commutes and evening walks.

  2. Watch for Back-to-School Traffic – Roads and transit get busier in September. Build in extra time for your commute, especially around schools and major routes.

  3. Check Your Transit Pass – The TTC often updates schedules in September. Make sure your PRESTO card is loaded and check for service changes.

  4. Enjoy Fall Events – From the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) to local farmers’ markets, September is packed with cultural events—great opportunities to explore the city.

  5. Prep for Shorter Days – Days get noticeably shorter. Replace outdoor lightbulbs and consider timers for added safety and convenience.

  6. Shop Smart for Seasonal Produce – September is peak harvest season in Ontario. Stock up on apples, squash, and late-summer vegetables at local markets for fresh, affordable meals.

Here is a maintenance guide to look at prior to calling Shelterly for service.

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 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!

September Preparation

  • Check Heating Systems

    Test your thermostat and ensure your furnace or heat source is working before the first cold night.

  • Seal Drafts

    Inspect windows and doors for gaps and apply weatherstripping or draft stoppers to save on energy.

  • Clean Vents & Filters

    Replace air filters and clear dust from vents for better air quality and efficiency.

  • Inspect Smoke & CO Detectors

    Replace batteries and test alarms for safety during heating season.

  • Tidy Balconies & Outdoor Spaces

    Remove items that could be damaged or blown away in fall storms.

  • Check Plumbing for Leaks

    Run faucets and inspect under sinks to prevent small drips from becoming bigger issues.

Now the fun stuff!

☀️ September Latte Recipe: Iced Honey Cinnamon Latte

A refreshing twist on a classic latte—perfect for cool September days.

Ingredients (1 serving):

  • 1 shot (or 2 if you need the kick) of espresso or strong brewed coffee

  • 1 cup cold milk (dairy or non-dairy)

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

  • Ice cubes

  • Optional: cinnamon stick or dusting of cinnamon for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Brew espresso and let it cool slightly.

  2. In a glass, stir together honey and cinnamon.

  3. Add ice cubes, then pour in milk.

  4. Slowly pour espresso over the top.

  5. Stir gently, garnish with a cinnamon stick or sprinkle, and enjoy.

🎬 Spotlight on TIFF in Toronto

Every September, Toronto transforms into the world’s stage for film as the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) takes over the city. Welcoming filmmakers, celebrities, and fans from across the globe, TIFF is a celebration of storytelling, creativity, and culture. From red-carpet premieres to intimate screenings of independent gems, the festival offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or just want to soak in the electric city buzz, TIFF is one of Toronto’s most exciting events of the year.

Okura Hotel lobby in Tokyo

Known as one of Japan’s most iconic interiors, the lobby of the Hotel Okura Tokyo blends mid-century modern design with traditional Japanese aesthetics. First unveiled in 1962 and later lovingly reimagined in the hotel’s renewal, the space is celebrated for its geometric lantern-style lighting, serene symmetry, and understated elegance. The lobby embodies the Japanese principle of omotenashi—hospitality with quiet grace—offering guests a sense of calm sophistication from the moment they step inside.

Missed a month? Catch up below!