Renting shouldn't compromise your safety. While many renters feel limited by the inability to install wired devices or drill into walls, there are still effective ways to enhance security.
We've gathered four renter-friendly methods that boost home protection without risking your deposit. From smart doorbells to better delivery practices, these low-effort solutions can be easily removed when it's time to move.
The most effective home security focuses on prevention, deterring potential intruders before they reach your door. Our conversations with security experts reveal key non-permanent strategies tailored for renters, allowing you to feel secure in your home without upsetting your landlord.
Renters' Home Security Strategies
1. Porch Management
Keeping your porch clear of unattended packages and identifiable branding can deter opportunists.
It may seem obvious, but where you choose to hide spare keys is crucial. According to security expert Edouard Rekko, hiding them under mats or pots is a common mistake thieves often check first. If you can't trust a friend with a spare, consider a coded lock box—it's a smart, removable option.
Your trash can also signal risks. 'Leaving packaging from expensive items outside is like putting up a sign advertising your valuables,' Edouard cautions. Break down boxes and remove brand names before disposal.
Delivery management matters too. Unattended packages can indicate no one's home, especially when combined with visible clutter or poor lighting—red flags for burglars.
Maintaining a tidy front entry, securing windows and doors (even when at home), and avoiding common identity theft errors are all essential practices for renters. Simple daily habits can be as effective as high-tech gadgets.
2. Peel-and-Stick Smart Doorbells
Video doorbells can be mounted using adhesive, eliminating the need for drilling.
For eyes on your front door without damaging the exterior, Corey Birnstengel suggests wireless, DIY systems with peel-and-stick sensors. These don't require landlord approval and can be easily uninstalled when you leave.
A video doorbell is a crucial step in a smart home setup, allowing remote access to live streams via your phone or voice commands through devices like Alexa or Google. Pair it with additional smart gadgets to enhance your space.
You can find peel-and-stick mounts online for major brands' video doorbells:
3. Indoor Security Cameras
Indoor cameras are discreet and portable, requiring no installation.
Indoor cameras are perfect for renters due to their portability, discretion, and lack of installation requirements. Many models can stand freely or use removable adhesives, providing clear footage and alerts without affecting walls.
Corey advises sticking to indoor devices unless you have landlord permission. In shared living situations, a hallway camera can monitor traffic, especially when combined with smart smoke alarms or motion-activated lighting for added awareness.
Be cautious about where your footage is stored. Some brands focus on local storage rather than cloud options, which can help mitigate digital security concerns.
4. No-Drill Mounts for Outdoor Cameras
Outdoor cameras can also be installed using adhesive mounts.
Just because drilling isn't an option doesn't mean outdoor cameras are out of reach. Mounts that use adhesives are available for various outdoor cameras, allowing for secure installation.
Consider a military dad's security picks when selecting your outdoor camera. Coupled with protective landscaping, like thorny plants around fences or windows, your home can feel secure and private without any building alterations.
Using durable adhesive mounts allows for easy installations without damage, making them perfect for outdoor cameras.
Before heading out on vacation, ensure your security system is ready. Protecting your home while you're away requires some planning, but renters can achieve the same level of safety as homeowners with the right equipment.
