Should Renters Invest in a Home Security System?

A robust home security system is an effective deterrent to criminals and a wise investment for any home. We know how important it is to have peace of mind no matter where you live, or whether you rent or own your property. This is a guide about home security for renters and apartments, and how it differs from homeowners.

The benefits of home alarm systems for renters

Alarm installation provides peace of mind to a person living in a home no matter what that person’s status is legally on the mortgage or tenancy. Some of the benefits of home alarm systems for renters include:

Peace of mind

Home security systems protect your home at all times, if you are home or not. This provides you a serenity that can help improve your daily life.

Protect your valuables

For both sentimental and valuable personal items, boosting your home security protects them from potential theft.

Deterrent to criminals

A clear home security system, such as a door camera, CCTV, or alarm system, all act as a deterrent to potential criminals.

The benefits of home alarm systems for landlords

If you own a property that you rent out to tenants, you should also consider installing a home alarm system, as it brings with it the following benefits:

Protect your investment

Alarm systems and 24/7 professional monitoring help to protect a property during tenancy agreements but also when the property is vacant (empty properties are often targets for vandalism and break ins).

Lower your insurance

A secure home is more likely to reduce liabilities and for you to experience lower insurance premiums. This can come from deadbolts, robust alarm systems, and other methods.

Attract higher rental value

A secure home provides extra levels of safety and peace of mind that attracts a higher number of potential renters. This could help you to increase the rental value of your home.

Keep on top of long-term maintenance and repairs

Smart home products and smart home monitoring systems can help to keep residents safe from flooding, carbon monoxide poisoning, or notify of an unauthorised presence.

Why is apartment security as important as house security?

With so many renters living in apartments, often with a single access and entry point, apartments get overlooked when discussing home security. A burglar will look at how easy it is to get in and out of a property undetected, and, if they can get into a block of apartments during the day when fewer people are around, they might find apartments a good target.

What’s the difference between rental security and homeowner security?

There are a few things that you must consider as a tenant that wants to install home security systems in your rental property:

Speak with your landlord

Speak with your landlord about what you want to do and why. If you install security such as a 24/7 monitoring service, you may want to share security pins and contacts with the landlord.

Don’t install cameras inside

If you plan on sharing your home security camera feed with your landlord (or it has been installed by the homeowner) consider the proper places to have a camera installed. From a landlord’s point of view, you cannot breach the privacy of the tenants. For renters, a camera over the front door cannot record other properties.

Stick to short-term security contracts

If you install a 24/7 home monitoring system without the support of a landlord, consider short-term contracts that match the length of your tenancy agreement.

Conclusion

If you rent your home but want to ensure that you have the same home security solutions as a homeowner, do not fear. You do have rights as a renter to install home security systems in your home, whether you rent an apartment or a house. Get a free security consultation today to speak with a friendly member of our team about your home security options as a renter.