Home security for renters should come without the havoc and headaches of lengthy contracts. Some home security contracts can last up to five years and you may have to pay hefty early termination fees costing hundreds of dollars. If you choose a security provider requiring a contract, be sure to understand early termination fees, equipment and service costs. Most DIY home security systems that offer professional monitoring make moving easy without a contract including SimpliSafe, Lifeshield and Ring. Before locking into a contract, ask about month-to-month options to give you more flexibility if you plan on moving. Month-to-month options may seem more expensive upfront but could be cheaper than ending a contract early and paying more in the end.
Best for Customer Support
- Locked monitoring rates
- Limited lifetime warranty
- 4G LTE Monitoring
Best for Smart Homes
- Variety of smart home devices and features
- Wireless system
- Mobile app access and control available
Best for DIY Installation
- No contracts
- Inexpensive professional monitoring
- A range of security packages
Best for Smart Homes
- Features an all-in-one security system
- Optional professional installation
- Customizable home automations
Best Monitoring Options
- Locked monitoring rate
- No installation fees
- Smart home devices and features
6 Best Home Security Systems for Renters
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Frontpoint
Best Customizable Feature Options
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Vivint
Best Smart Home Equipment
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SimpliSafe
Best Technology Options
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Abode
Best Smart Home Compatibility
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LifeShield
Best for Creating a Smart Home
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Protect America
Best Monitoring Options
Best Home Security Systems for Renters
Frontpoint Home Security
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BBB ratingA+
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Starting price$34.99/mo
Frontpoint Security offers customizable, DIY home security systems and is consistently recognized for outstanding customer service. Giving customers easy-to-follow installation instructions and access to help over the phone, Frontpoint makes DIY systems simple. Frontpoint provides modern security equipment and home automation options through six different packages. Customers can choose to include security cameras, smart home devices, motion detection, environmental monitoring and more in their security package. Customers have to purchase Frontpoint’s equipment upfront, but are able to choose from different monthly monitoring plans. Professional monitoring for Frontpoint home security packages starts at $34.99/mo.
What we like
- Locked monitoring rates
- Limited lifetime warranty
- 4G LTE Monitoring
Vivint Home Security
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BBB ratingD-
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Starting price$38.99/mo
Vivint is recognized for its innovative security equipment and simple home automation integration. Vivint provides 24/7 professional monitoring services and professional installation. With Vivint, you have the ability to customize your own equipment package and choose a monitoring service to fit your family’s needs. Vivint has a range of well-designed equipment, with popular choices being the outdoor camera pro, indoor ping camera, and doorbell camera. Vivint offers basic motion detection and keypad control in all packages, allowing customers to customize their smart home and surveillance features. Vivint offers two professional security monitoring plans that start at $38.99/mo. Vivint allows customers to control their home security system no matter where they are through the smart home app.
What we like
- Variety of smart home devices and features
- Wireless system
- Mobile app access and control available
SimpliSafe Home Security System
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BBB ratingA+
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Starting price$14.99/mo
SimpliSafe is a popular DIY security provider known for its affordable professional alarm monitoring. SimpliSafe offers a range of home security solutions for customers with both equipment packages and monitoring plans to choose from. Customers must purchase SimpliSafe equipment upfront, but there are three different package options. SimpliSafe’s equipment is modern and easy to install. Designed with renters in mind, installing SimpliSafe equipment is non-invasive. All packages include the security basics like motion sensors, while the more advanced packages include enhancements like video surveillance or key fob control. SimpliSafe also offers several professional monitoring, starting at the low cost of $14.99/mo. The monitoring plans include features like environmental monitoring, mobile alerts, security camera recording and more.
What we like
- No contracts
- Inexpensive professional monitoring
- A range of security packages
Abode offers home security systems that can be self-installed or set up by professionals. The two equipment packages you’ll find with Abode are the Smart Security Kit for as low as $199.00 and the Iota All-In-One Security Kit for as low as $229.00. With Abode, you’ll get access to unique features like custom automations for your security system and smart devices, and you’ll also find an all-in-one security device with built-in motion detection, two-way talk, and video surveillance. With Abode, you can use Amazon Alexa products, Google Nest products, Z-wave enabled devices, and more. If you’re looking to protect your home around-the-clock, choose the Abode Always On+ monitoring plan for professional monitoring which costs $8.33/mo.
What we like
- Features an all-in-one security system
- Optional professional installation
- Customizable home automations
Protect America Home Security
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BBB ratingA-
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Starting price$19.99/mo
Serving customers for over 25 years, Protect America focuses on providing affordable home security systems to customers. Protect America offers DIY installation options, allowing you to save money on your alarm system. Protect America does not have any upfront equipment cost, rather offering three security equipment packages: Copper, Silver and Platinum. With 100% wireless and portable equipment, Protect America is an ideal solution for renters. Protect America offers advanced equipment options including security cameras, keychain remotes, motion sensors and more. You can also enhance your homes protection using Protect America’s Smart Connect mobile app for remote control and live feed access. For professional monitoring, there are also three packages offered based on type of connectivity: Landline Plan, Broadband Plan or Cellular Plan. Protect America’s home security monitoring costs start at $19.99/mo.
What we like
- Locked monitoring rate
- No installation fees
- Smart home devices and features
Home Security Tips for Renters
- Get renter’s insurance. In case anything happens, you’ll have coverage over your valuables. Some property managers require it, but it’s good to have even if not.
- Double down on door security. Standard locks can help protect you from thieves, but consider adding a door jammer or deadbolt to withstand forced entry just in case.
- Get to know your neighbors. Together, you and your community can help reduce the risk of dangers in your area. Start by exchanging numbers so if there’s an emergency, you can both stay safe.
- Buy a safe. Invest in a home safe to store your prized possessions instead of a drawer or under the mattress. In case anything happens, your valuables will be out of sight.
- Cover your windows. Keep your windows covered with curtains and blinds to avoid giving lurkers a crystal clear view what’s inside your home.
Home Security for Renters FAQs
Do I need a security system if I live in an apartment?
Emergencies and danger can happen anytime, anywhere and apartments are no exception. Home security for renters is the extra protection you need to protect yourself and your valuables in high traffic areas. If you’re not ready for a fully-monitored system, consider installing more door security or sensors to alert you of any danger as a precaution and for your peace of mind.
Can I get a discount on my renter’s insurance if I install a home security system?
Some insurance providers offer insurance rate discounts to homeowners and renters with security systems. Check with your insurance provider for any potential savings.
Should my landlord be responsible for installing my security system?
Some apartment complexes have security systems pre-installed and if you would like to use it, you’ll be responsible for activation, monthly costs and any additional fees. Consult with your landlord about negotiating any fees, but bear in mind they are not required.
What is the best home security system for renters?
It all depends on your security needs. Start by looking for an affordable and easy-to-use security system. The best home security for renters should be easy to install without wiring or drilling. And if your rental property is not your ‘forever home,’ look for a system that doesn’t bind you to a contract just in case you decide to move sooner than your contract is up and your equipment isn’t as useful in your new space.
