Renter-friendly ways to help secure your home

Key points: renter-friendly security

• Check your lease and get landlord or property manager approval if required before installing smart security products.
• Battery-powered security devices can help improve home security without drilling, rewiring or making permanent changes.
• Camera and doorbell placement matters, so check privacy requirements and avoid recording neighbours or shared common areas where possible.
• Start by securing key entry points such as the front door, accessible windows and side access areas.

Before you start

Check your lease requirements and request approval from your landlord or property manager if needed. Always check product compatibility and follow the installation instructions before setting up new equipment.

Start with simple smart security upgrades

When it comes to smart security for renters, there are lots of ways to secure your home that don’t involve drilling or rewiring. With battery-powered smart products, you can bring them home and put them straight to work.

Two of the easiest ones to start with are a wireless security camera and a video doorbell. Both run on battery power, so there's no wiring or electrician required – charge them up, then mount in place (or prop up the camera in a safe spot) and you're set. Handy features to look for include live view and motion alerts so you always know what's happening at your place, plus two-way talk so you can speak to whoever's there.

Choose flexible products that suit your space

Renters get used to working around what's already there, whether that’s tired bathroom tiles or a temperamental oven. Solving the home security puzzle calls for the same mindset – look for renter-friendly products that fit your space, not the other way round. A wireless motion sensor can go wherever it's needed most, while a smart globe screws straight into your existing light fitting. Some cameras and doorbells can also be attached using a mount, with a few different options available – just check what’s compatible with your product before you buy. The goal is to avoid permanent fixtures and get the security you need without risking your bond.

Think about placement before setup

Even non-permanent fixtures can be a pain to remove and reposition if the placement isn’t quite right. Before you settle on a spot for your camera, test the angle using live view in the app to make sure it’s capturing what you need it to. Don’t worry about making sure your whole home is covered straightaway – the best areas to start with are your front door plus any easy-to-reach windows or side access. If you're renting a house, you might want to monitor the driveway or a side gate. Privacy matters with apartments and shared buildings, so be careful not to capture common areas and neighbouring doors. Sharing your place? Smart home security lets you share access without sharing a password – and remove it the moment your housemate moves out.

As for smart door locks, these aren't something you can usually install yourself in a rental property, but it's worth discussing the idea with your landlord or property manager. For them, it's easier than juggling keys for emergencies and inspections. And if you've ever locked yourself out, you'll understand how handy it would be to get back in without a locksmith.

Build your smart home over time

The beauty of smart home products is you can start small and build from there – a camera now, a doorbell later – depending on your budget and what suits your space. And you can feel safe knowing that, because nothing here is permanent, none of it has to stay behind when you leave. Before the move, all you need to do is unplug, box it and set it up again at your next place – the most you’ll lose is a few extra minutes, not your bond.

Shop Smart Hub in store or online

If you're ready to build a smarter rental, compare cameras, doorbells, sensors and lighting solutions that suit your space and installation requirements. You can explore the range through Smart Hub and choose products that can move with you from one home to the next.

Frequently asked questions

What smart security products are best for renters?

Battery-powered products are usually the easiest place to start. Wireless security cameras, video doorbells, smart sensors and smart lighting can often be installed without permanent modifications, making them well suited to rental properties.

Do I need my landlord's permission to install smart security devices?

It depends on the product and your tenancy agreement. Before installing any device, check your lease and speak with your landlord or property manager if approval may be required.

Where should I place a security camera in a rental property?

Focus on key entry points such as the front door, accessible windows, driveways and side access areas. Before finalising placement, use the device's live view function to check coverage and avoid recording neighbouring properties or shared spaces where possible.

Can I take my smart security products with me when I move?

In many cases, yes. Products designed to be wireless or non-permanent can usually be removed and reinstalled in a new property, making them a flexible option for renters.

Are smart door locks suitable for rental properties?

Smart door locks may require approval because they can involve changes to your existing lock setup. Discuss the options with your landlord or property manager before making any decisions.