How Much Does It Cost to Upgrade a Building Intercom in Calgary?
If your building still relies on an aging audio-only intercom, you are not alone. In older Calgary condos and apartments, a failing or frustrating intercom is the #1 complaint we hear — buzzers that do not work, residents who cannot hear visitors clearly, and no way to see who is at the door.
A modern video intercom fixes all of that. Residents can see and speak to visitors before letting them in, manage entry from their phone, and enjoy a system that actually works the way it should. It also adds a real layer of security to your building entrance.
So how much does it cost to upgrade a building intercom in Calgary? The honest answer is: it depends on the building. Every building is different, and the right system for a small walk-up is very different from the right system for a large multi-entrance tower. That is why we start with a free on-site estimate — so you get a clear answer for your building, not a guess.
What Drives the Cost of a Building Intercom Upgrade?
Several factors determine the scope — and therefore the cost — of an intercom upgrade:
- Number of entrances: More entrances mean more panels, wiring and access points to upgrade.
- Suite count: The number of suites affects the size of the system, the number of in-suite stations or app users, and how the system is configured.
- Condition of existing wiring: Many retrofits reuse existing wiring where it is still sound, which can keep the work simpler. If wiring is damaged or outdated, more work may be needed.
- Panel type: Audio vs. video panels, and surface vs. flush mounting, all affect the equipment and installation work involved.
- Added features: Mobile app access for residents, video recording, and parkade or garage integration add capability — and value — to the system.
- Installation conditions: Access to entrances and risers, building layout, and working around an occupied building all shape the installation plan.
Retrofit vs. New Build
Retrofits in occupied buildings are most of our work. We know how to upgrade a system without turning your building upside down: we reuse wiring where it is sound, work around residents to minimize disruption, and keep the old system running until the new one is live. That means no gap in building access and no long period without an intercom.
New builds are a different job — the system is planned from the start, with wiring and panels designed in alongside the rest of the building. Either way, the goal is the same: a reliable, modern intercom that residents find easy to use.
Our WE PAY HALF Program
Our current program for Calgary buildings makes upgrading far more affordable. The full upgrade package is $5,500 per building, and Bordo pays half. The building’s share is $2,750, with MiVision video included, and residents get the mobile app with simple per-app monthly pricing.
That means your building gets a modern video intercom system — including video and mobile app access for residents — without paying the full package cost. Learn more about the systems we install on our Mircom intercom page for Calgary buildings.
What’s Included
- A modern video intercom upgrade for your building entrance
- MiVision video included
- Mobile app access for residents
- Video service included
- Integration options, including parkade and garage integration where applicable
- Phone entry as well as app entry, so residents can be reached by landline or cell
- Professional installation, with the old system kept running until the new one is live
What Affects Your Monthly Cost
After the upgrade, the ongoing cost comes down to the resident app. Resident app pricing scales down as suite count goes up, so larger buildings pay less per app. Video service is included, and there are no per-call charges for residents.
In other words, residents get video and mobile access without worrying about being charged every time someone buzzes in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the building need new wiring?
Usually not — we assess first. Many retrofits reuse existing wiring where it is sound, and we will tell you honestly what your building needs after an on-site assessment.
How long does an upgrade take?
Most single-entrance buildings are done in days. Larger or multi-entrance buildings take longer, and we will give you a clear timeline before work starts.
Can residents keep their phone entry?
Yes — systems can call landlines and cells as well as the app, so residents who prefer phone entry are not left behind.
Do you work with our property manager?
Yes — boards and property managers are our main clients. We work directly with your board and property manager through the estimate, installation and handover.
Ready to Get a Free Estimate?
If your building’s intercom is causing complaints — or you simply want to know what an upgrade would cost for your building — start with a free on-site estimate. We will assess your building, explain your options, and give you a clear, no-pressure quote.
Call us today at 403-397-3300 or +1 (888) 397-3301, or contact us to book your free on-site estimate.
