A video doorbell lets you see and talk to whoever is at the door, but on its own it does not unlock anything. To let someone in from your phone or an indoor intercom, the doorbell or intercom has to be paired with a lock that can be released electronically: either a smart deadbolt that both devices can talk to through an app or hub, or a wired door release such as an electric strike. Which route makes sense depends on the door, the wiring already in place, and whether you own the home or rent it.

Want a second opinion on your door before you buy? Call (613) 707-4884.

Two Ways to Connect a Doorbell or Intercom to a Lock

1. App or hub integration with a smart deadbolt

This is the most common setup in single-family homes. The video doorbell handles the camera and two-way audio, and a separate smart deadbolt handles locking. The two are linked through the manufacturer's app, a smart-home hub or a voice assistant, so you can see the visitor and tap "unlock" from the same screen. Nothing is wired between them; the lock runs on batteries and the doorbell runs on its own power.

  • Pros: no new wiring, works on a standard exterior door, and the mechanical key still works as a backup.
  • Watch for: compatibility. Not every doorbell works with every lock, so check that both products list support for the same app, hub or smart-home standard before buying.

2. Wired intercom with a door release

Older multi-unit houses, triplexes and some custom homes use a wired intercom with a button that releases the entry door. The release is usually an electric strike in the frame: when energized (or de-energized, depending on type) it lets the latch pass without the handle being unlocked. Newer video intercom panels can replace old audio-only units and keep the same release.

  • Pros: fast, reliable release from inside, and often already partly wired.
  • Watch for: the strike must match the latch and the frame, the power supply must suit the strike, and the door must close fully on its own or the release does nothing useful.

Door and Lock Details That Make or Break It

  • Alignment: a smart deadbolt motor struggles if the bolt rubs on the strike plate. Seasonal swelling and frost heave in Ottawa often push doors out of line, so the bolt should slide freely by hand before any motor is added.
  • Battery care: keep spare batteries on hand and replace them as soon as the low-battery warning appears. Cold exterior doors can shorten battery life.
  • Mechanical backup: choose a smart lock that keeps a key cylinder, or know exactly how you will get in if the batteries or Wi-Fi fail.
  • Auto-lock: set the lock to relock after a short delay so a remote unlock for a delivery or guest doesn't leave the door open for the rest of the day.

Keeping Remote Unlock Secure

  1. Turn on two-factor authentication for the doorbell and lock accounts.
  2. Give family members their own logins or codes instead of sharing one password, so access can be removed individually.
  3. Review the activity log after giving temporary access to a cleaner, dog walker or contractor.
  4. Keep the apps and device firmware up to date.
  5. Don't rely on a voice command alone to unlock an exterior door; require a PIN or phone confirmation.

Renting? Check Before You Change Locks

Swapping the entry lock in a rented unit raises questions about keys and landlord consent. Our article on landlord and tenant lock rules in Ontario explains the basics before you install anything.

Next Step

If you're pairing a doorbell or intercom with a new lock, getting the door and deadbolt right first saves trouble later. See our smart lock installation service, or call (613) 707-4884 to talk it over.