Home Security for Apartments & Rentals

In the United States, nearly 37% of households rent. More Americans are renting now than ever before in history. While the average household may rent for seven years before buying their own home, an increasing number say they plan to rent forever. With an influx of renters and rental properties sprouting up, the home security market has had to pivot to meet the demands and needs of these customers.  

To start, here are our top 3 home security picks for apartments

In this article we look at what options are available for home security systems that are feasible and affordable for those that are renting.    

What should renters look for in a home security system?

Security systems for renters might differ from homeowners in that renters generally like contract-free systems that allow for no drilling or altering of the structure and are portable so it can be taken to their next home.

Here are some common things renters might be looking for in a home security system:

• No-Contract live monitoring (if desired)
• Wireless, portable security cameras (run on rechargeable batteries)
• Do-it-Yourself installation of equipment
• Ability to transfer equipment and plan to a future home
• Low pricing since, in a smaller apartment, for example, you won’t need as much equipment so you should expect to pay less than a single family home owner

Your wants and needs as a renter may differ from the above due to your particular situation. If you’re renting a 4-bedroom house or apartment you may end up diverging from several of the common needs of renters above. Take some time to decide what your particular home security needs are, read on below and use our guides to home security in your area to find the right provider for you.

Which is the best home security solution for a small apartment or condo?

If you are looking to put in a security system in your apartment or condo, some things to look for are easy portability, DIY installation, and short-term or no contracts. More and more companies are popping up that tailor their services to these specifications, but the old standbys still rank the highest.  

Best home security overall for renters 

SimpliSafe is far and above the clear winner in our research. They offer month to month billing, the choice to either have your property professionally monitored or to employ the self-monitoring option of a loud siren to scare off potential intruders, and are super affordable. They also offer a full range of equipment that you can pick and choose based on your needs and wants. With it’s high customer service rankings, DIY installation and easy portability, SimpliSafe is a great choice for renters. 

Try SimpliSafe

Cheapest home security system for renters

Ring emerged on the scene in 2013 as a doorbell camera and really took off in 2018 when it was acquired by Amazon. It has since added outdoor cameras, indoor cameras and an alarm security kit that includes a keypad, siren, and motion sensors.  

Ring security cameras and doorbells do not require a subscription to work, giving the user a real-time video of what is happening around their property. However, you can sign up for a plan that will allow you to view, share, and download activity that has happened. Monthly and annual subscriptions range from $3/month ($30/year) for a basic plan allowing for video recording for one camera to $20/month ($200/year) for 24/7 professional monitoring and video recording for all devices, making Ring one of the cheapest systems on the market that meets the most basic security needs. Buying the cameras and security items might be a costly endeavor up front, but the pick-and-choose model allows customers to buy only those security items they want and the entire system can be moved to a new location with little hassle. Ring’s easy installation, portability and contract-free monitoring make this an attractive system to renters.

Try Ring

Best deluxe home security system with all available options

For those wanting top of the line security systems that integrate smart home products like lighting and thermostats and support full home automation, there is no shortage of companies that will take your money.  However, our research indicates that industry giants Vivint and ADT still top the list for deluxe systems.  

Vivint offers a long list of services and products to fortify your home. Their installation process is individualized, involving a consultation with their technicians to assess the needs and wants for your home and building a customized system. This kind of personal attention comes at a price, but their equipment is top notch and customers say they are worth every penny for that extra peace of mind.  

Try Vivint

ADT has been providing security systems in the US for almost 150 years. While it has changed drastically from it’s early days of a telegraph-based "call-box", ADT is still one of the leaders in the home security market based on brand recognition and top-tier customer service. Like Vivint, their installation is very personal and comes at a steep price. They also only offer long-term contracts of at least 3 years, so might not be a great solution for renters who might be relocating in the near future.  

Best home security system for portability?

After shelling out a few hundred dollars for cameras, sensors, and doorbells, the last thing you want to do is leave it all behind for the next tenant when you move.  Ring and SimpliSafe have the best portability for their systems.  Their wireless installations make it easy to remove the devices, pack them away, and set them up at your new residence with no disruption in service or hassle from the company. 

Can you install ADT or another home security system that requires a professional installation?

Yes, you can install ADT at any location, including a small condo or apartment complex. You do need permission from your landlord or owner of the property but often they’re keen on protecting their building themselves so it’s worth an ask.

If you’re not getting a positive answer from your landlord you do have the right to install a home security system in your unit that doesn’t alter the structure of your rental. They cannot legally stop you in any state from installing a wireless camera yourself, for example. Hopefully, the issue of installing a home security system where you live is not a confrontational one and you’re able to use the solution of your choice. But be sure to get permission first if you’re altering your rented apartment, condo or house.

Security systems provide you with peace of mind knowing that your home is safe from intruders as well as fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and floods. They allow you to leave, knowing your possessions and home are in safe hands. It’s important to sit down and assess the security needs that best fits your lifestyle.  Check out our guides to home security in your area to find the right provider.