Best Home Security System for Renters 2022

Even if you’re renting your home, security is still important. For extra protection and peace of mind, you might want to install a home security system. We’ve rated the Best Home Security Systems for Renters of 2022 to help you decide, listing the Best DIY Systems that also don’t require a multiyear contract, which wouldn’t be advisable if you have a month-to-month lease.

Below, we describe the price, features, and plans of our Best Home Security Systems for Renters. We also explain the pros and cons of installing a home security system in a rental property, what to look for in a system, and how to install one without damaging the interior and using up your security deposit.

Renters have a number of options for home security systems. But whether you need one is another story. Like a lot of things, it depends on your situation.

Extra protection without complications. Many renters can easily install a DIY security system that offers strong protection without getting locked into a costly monitoring contract. Most of the newer DIY systems have professional-quality equipment and the companies can help walk you through the installation with videos, online or phone help. Lee Walters, a former FBI security specialist, says many DIY systems on the market now are simple enough for most renters to install on their own.

Connecting smart home devices. Installing the latest DIY security systems involves tasks many people are familiar with, like connecting your smart thermostat or garage door opener to your home Wi-Fi Network. Many of the sensors used in security networks can be placed on a shelf or counter or attached with supplied adhesives that don’t damage walls or woodwork. A security system can become a hub for the rest of your smart home gear, allowing you to control compatible video doorbells, dimmable lights, smoke detectors, smart thermostats, door locks, and more.

If you’re ambitious, you can program a sequence of events such as turning on lights when motion is detected or automatically locking doors when you leave. Jordan Frankel, founder of Global Security Experts, a security consulting firm, points out that lighting on the perimeter of your property in conjunction with an alarm system is “a key element in home security” and can help deter home invasions.

Renters will have to put in the effort and money needed for a home security system, and it may not be worth it with a short lease. Most DIY starter kits come with a minimal number of sensors so you might need additional gear for full protection. Frankel cautions against buying the smallest starter package and advises consumers carefully assess their risks and needs. “There is no concrete formula for how many sensors you need in a room,” he says.

You will need to plan the layout, install the system, and test it regularly. You’ll probably also need to troubleshoot any problems, but you can also use a monitoring service (for a monthly fee) to keep tabs on your property and your system.

Be prepared for false alarms, which can happen. A frequent loud siren may cause problems with your neighbors and your landlord.

Renters should consider the following when choosing a home security system:

It will take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to install a DIY security system depending on your skills. But you probably won’t need mechanical or technical expertise; the systems in our Best for Renters Ratings can be set up without special tools, wiring, or electrical know-how. It will be easier if you are comfortable with electronic gadgets and have connected devices to your Wi-Fi network.

The systems in our Best Home Security Systems for Renters rating include a main control hub, generally using Wi-Fi. The hub can be operated with a keypad and/or a smartphone app. You will also get sensors for doors and windows to detect motion or glass breaking. In some systems, a camera is included. Each of these systems allow renters to start with a basic equipment package and add more gear as needed.

Here are the basic steps for installing a home security system for renters:

For more information about home security systems, see the following guides:

In addition to our ratings of home security systems, you may be interested in these guides to other products:

At U.S. News & World Report, we rank the Best Hospitals, Best Colleges, and Best Cars to guide readers through some of life’s most complicated decisions. Our 360 Reviews team draws on this same unbiased approach to rate the products that you use every day. To build our ratings, we researched more than 36 home security systems and analyzed 20 reviews. Our 360 Reviews team does not take samples, gifts, or loans of products or services we review. All sample products provided for review are donated after review. In addition, we maintain a separate business team that has no influence over our methodology or recommendations.