Guide
Home Security for Renters and Apartments
Renters can install a full monitored security system without permanent changes: the hub, door and window sensors, motion sensors, and an indoor camera attach with adhesive or 2 small screws, while doorbell cameras, outdoor cameras, and smart locks need landlord consent because they replace or mount to the building. This guide lists the 4 devices that need no permission and the 3 that do, compares no-contract and agreement options for a 12-month lease, gives the 10 apartment security steps, and states moving costs by brand.
Which Devices Can Renters Install Without Permission?
Renters can install 4 device types without permission, the hub, entry sensors, motion sensors, and an indoor camera, and need written landlord consent for 3: a doorbell camera (wiring), an outdoor camera (exterior mount), and a smart lock (deadbolt replacement).
| Device | Permission | Restoration at move-out |
|---|---|---|
| Hub, sensors, indoor camera | No | Remove adhesive; fill 2 holes |
| Doorbell camera | Yes | Refit original button |
| Outdoor camera | Yes | Fill mount holes |
| Smart lock | Yes | Refit deadbolt; return keys |
No Contract or Agreement: Which Suits a 12-Month Lease?
A no-contract plan suits a renter who may leave the service area or stop using the system within 12 months, and a 36-month agreement suits a renter who expects to keep the system and move it, because the agreement follows the person: Vivint moves a system for $149 (Basic Move) and charges month to month at $29.99 when equipment is paid upfront.
| Option | Upfront | Monthly | Moving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vivint, equipment paid upfront | $199.99+ plus $199 install | $29.99, month to month | $149 reinstall |
| Vivint, financed with agreement | $0 (0% APR) | $24.99 for 36 months | $149 reinstall; agreement continues |
| SimpliSafe | $229+ | $19.99 to $29.99, no contract | Take it with you; no fee |
| Ring Alarm | $199.99+ | $19.99, no contract | Take it with you; no fee |
| abode | $130+ | Free to $26.99, no contract | Take it with you; no fee |
The Vivint for renters guide covers the Vivint route in detail.
What Are the 10 Apartment Security Steps?
The 10 apartment security steps, in order of cost, are listed below.
From free to paid:
- Lock windows and sliding doors with secondary bars or pins.
- Ask the landlord to rekey the lock at move-in.
- Add a door sensor to every entry door and a motion sensor in the main room.
- Put the hub where the siren is heard from the hallway.
- Add an indoor camera facing the interior of the door.
- Register the alarm with the city if it is monitored (fines apply to renters too).
- Use a smart plug to run a lamp on a schedule when away.
- Add a water sensor under the sink or water heater; leaks are the most common apartment claim.
- Get the insurance certificate for a renters policy discount.
- Arm in Stay mode at night and Away mode when out.
What Does Moving Cost by Brand?
Moving costs $149 to reinstall a Vivint system (free removal if you take it down yourself; both fees waived for military deployments) and nothing with SimpliSafe, Ring, Cove, or abode, which are self-installed; the Vivint moving guide lists the options.
Frequently Asked Questions
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