Installing Home Security in a Rented House

Burglars don’t care who owns the homes they target. They’re just looking for a home they can easily rob.

As a tenant, your safety is your responsibility. Protecting yourself and your valuables from theft means following best safety practices, including installing a home security system.

If you are thinking about securing your apartment or rental home, this guide is a great place to start. We’ll help you find the home security option that meets your housing situation and safety needs.

Can tenants install a home security system without permission?

Generally, tenants can install a security system in and around their homes without asking their landlord first. That said, you should check both your lease and local laws before adding these devices.

If your lease states that cameras or security systems aren’t allowed, you have to follow the agreement. You can, however, talk with your landlord about improving your security. They may be willing to work with you.

Similarly, landlords can install security equipment around the home as well. Though they can’t place cameras inside or in any area that you would reasonably expect to have privacy, they can place cameras around the property. If you have any concerns, be sure to meet with your landlord about the issue.

How to find the best home security system for your rental

Rentals are typically temporary homes, so it’s important to find a system that meets your changing circumstances. Keep reading for the top features to look for in a rental home security system.

1. Check the moving policy

When you are ready to move to a new rental or home, you will probably want to take your security equipment with you. Unfortunately, that isn’t always an option, depending on the security provider you choose.

Before making your final selection, research the company’s moving policy, which may state that:

You will have to start a new contract and buy new equipment to move
You will have to pay to uninstall and reinstall the equipment in your new home
You can transfer your agreement to someone else (such as the next tenant)

Additionally, research the cancellation policy. If you decide not to keep your system or your new home already has equipment installed, you need to know what to expect.

Some providers allow you to cancel at any time, which makes your life easier. Others require that you pay 75% or 100% of your full contract price, which can be hundreds of dollars. Do your research beforehand to find the option that meets your future plans.

2. Look for a DIY home security system

When it comes to rentals, do-it-yourself security systems are usually the best choice. These solutions are more temporary than other options and typically have lower costs.

For instance, DIY security equipment usually features peel-and-stick installation. You will install your devices yourself, a fairly quick and easy process. When you’re ready to move, you can easily remove the equipment and take it with you.

These systems also have more payment flexibility. Often, you can avoid long-term contracts and additional fees for professional monitoring. You can still add a monitoring plan if you want, but it may not be a requirement for your system.

DIY home security equipment also costs less. You can choose to pay the full price upfront or to finance it, but you won’t break the bank either way.

Options such as Frontpoint and Ring are ideal for renters. They offer the ability to build a robust security system without the costs and requirements of larger providers.

3. Sign up for 24/7 monitoring

You don’t have to sign up for this service, but we recommend it. As a renter, you and your home are more vulnerable than most homeowners. Your landlord has a key to your home. Maintenance workers, cleaning crews, and anyone else authorized to have a key can enter at any time.

Most landlords work hard to maintain your safety, but not all do. In those situations, you need someone else watching out for you.

Professional monitoring ensures that a team is ready 24/7 to respond to any alerts. The moment your alarm is triggered, they will reach out to see if you’re okay. If you need help or they can’t reach you, they will immediately send first responders to your home.

This service does require a monthly fee, but it is worth the cost. Add this extra layer of protection to make sure you stay safe.

4. Install indoor and doorbell cameras

When your landlord needs to enter your home, you will have to either disarm your security system or give them the code.

That means other people have free access to your home and belongings. Unless you’re home, there’s no way to know what happened while they were there.

Even if you have a trustworthy landlord, security cameras allow you to see what happened while you were gone. You can make sure no one is entering your home without your permission. If your landlord does get your permission to go inside, you can make sure they act appropriately while there.

Doorbell cameras also show who has been lurking near your front door. You can keep an eye out for suspicious people and activity, as well as get alerts whenever someone approaches your home.

Plus, you can adjust your notifications so you don’t get an alert every time someone walks down the hallway in your apartment building.

5. Don’t sign a long-term contract

Rentals are temporary homes, so you need a home security system that is temporary as well. Some providers require long-term contracts that lock you into three to five years of service, even if you have to move or cancel during that time.

Instead, look for options that don’t require contracts or operate on a month-to-month basis. This setup offers more flexibility. You can enjoy all the benefits of a security system without getting trapped in an expensive service agreement.