How to Determine the Type of Townhouse You Live In
After purchasing your Fortify Plan, filling out the Fortify Form correctly is essential to ensure you get the most accurate security recommendations for your home. Townhouses come in various styles, and identifying the right type of townhouse is critical for tailoring your security plan. In this guide, we will break down the different types of townhouses—stacked, traditional, terraced, courtyard, split-level, modern, end-unit, brownstone, Victorian, and end-unit corner townhouses—so you can accurately determine your home type.
1. Stacked Townhouse
A stacked townhouse is essentially a multi-level unit within a larger townhouse structure, where units are stacked on top of each other. Each unit typically has its own entrance and may include shared or private outdoor spaces.
Stacked Townhouse vs Traditional Townhouse:
- Pros: More affordable than a traditional townhouse, with multi-level living within a shared building structure.
- Cons: Less privacy due to shared walls and possibly shared outdoor spaces.
If your townhouse is part of a vertically stacked structure with units on multiple levels, select “stacked townhouse” in your Fortify Form for accurate security recommendations.
2. Traditional Townhouse
A traditional townhouse is a multi-story home that shares walls with adjacent properties but typically has its own private entrance, often with multiple levels of living space.
Traditional vs Modern Townhouse: Traditional townhouses often have a classic design, with brick facades and more formal layouts, whereas modern townhouses emphasize open-plan living with contemporary finishes.
When filling out your Fortify Form, choose “traditional townhouse” if your home features classic design elements and a traditional, multi-story layout.
3. Terraced Townhouse
A terraced townhouse is one in a row of identical or mirror-image homes that share side walls with neighboring units. This type of townhouse is very common in urban areas.
Terraced Townhouse Features:
- Often found in densely populated cities, maximizing the use of space.
- May have limited outdoor areas but typically includes small front or back gardens.
If your townhouse is part of a row of identical homes sharing walls, select “terraced townhouse” in your Fortify Form for accurate security recommendations.
4. Courtyard Townhouse
A courtyard townhouse is a style of townhouse built around a central courtyard, offering a more private and serene living environment. These homes typically feature outdoor spaces that open to a shared or private courtyard.
Courtyard Townhouse Design:
- Focuses on outdoor living, often with large windows and doors that open to the courtyard.
- Offers more natural light and private outdoor spaces compared to other townhouse types.
If your townhouse is designed around a courtyard, make sure to select “courtyard townhouse” on your Fortify Form to reflect the unique layout and security needs of this design.
5. Split-Level Townhouse
A split-level townhouse features staggered levels, where different parts of the home are separated by short flights of stairs. These homes often provide a unique layout that separates living spaces, such as bedrooms and living rooms, more distinctively.
Split-Level Townhouse Advantages:
- Offers a more dynamic and interesting floor plan, ideal for families who want distinct areas for living and sleeping.
- Can create a more spacious feel due to the multiple levels.
If your home features a split-level design, select “split-level townhouse” in your Fortify Form to ensure the right security solutions for its unique layout.
6. Modern/Contemporary Townhouse
A modern townhouse or contemporary townhouse emphasizes sleek, clean lines, open floor plans, and modern finishes. These homes are typically built with energy-efficient materials and large windows to maximize natural light.
Modern Townhouse vs Contemporary Townhouse:
- Modern townhouses tend to have minimalist designs, while contemporary townhouses may integrate a mix of styles with modern amenities.
- Both types prioritize open-plan living and smart home features.
If your townhouse has a modern or contemporary design with open spaces and sleek finishes, choose “modern/contemporary townhouse” on your Fortify Form.
7. End-Unit Townhouse
An end-unit townhouse is located at the end of a row of townhouses, which means it only shares one wall with a neighboring home, offering more privacy and additional windows on the exposed side.
End-Unit Townhouse Benefits:
- More privacy due to fewer shared walls.
- Extra windows provide more natural light and ventilation.
For your Fortify Form, select “end-unit townhouse” if your home is located at the end of the row, as this will require specific security considerations for the additional exposure on one side.
8. Brownstone Townhouse
A brownstone townhouse is a classic urban home made from brown sandstone, often found in cities like New York and Boston. These homes are typically multi-story and exude historical charm.
Brownstone Townhouse Living:
- Known for their historical significance and distinctive architectural features.
- Typically includes stoops, large windows, and intricate moldings.
If your townhouse has a classic brownstone façade, select “brownstone townhouse” on your Fortify Form to ensure the security plan considers the distinct design elements of this home type.
9. Victorian Townhouse
A Victorian townhouse is characterized by its ornate detailing, tall windows, and high ceilings. These homes often feature bay windows, intricate woodwork, and decorative trim.
Victorian Townhouse Style:
- Offers historical charm with unique architectural details.
- Typically includes multiple stories and a more formal layout.
If your townhouse features the ornate architecture of the Victorian era, select “Victorian townhouse” in your Fortify Form to account for the unique layout and design.
10. End-Unit Corner Townhouse
An end-unit corner townhouse is situated at the end of a row, but also on a corner, which means it has exposure on two sides, providing additional privacy and light.
End-Unit Corner Townhouse Features:
- Often has more outdoor space and more windows due to its corner location.
- Offers enhanced privacy with fewer shared walls.
If your townhouse is both an end-unit and located on a corner, select “end-unit corner townhouse” on your Fortify Form for the best security recommendations.