Security for Renters

No drilling. No landlord drama. Everything here works in apartments, townhomes, and rentals.

Start with the Scorecard

The Renter Rule

Everything on this page is no-drill, no-permanent-modification, and lease-friendly. If you move, it all comes with you.

Getting Started

Start Here

Three steps to a more secure rental — no tools required.

1 Take the Security Scorecard Answer a few quick questions and get a personalized security score with recommendations tailored to renters. Take the quiz → 2 Read: The Complete Renter's Security Guide Our comprehensive guide covers everything from door reinforcement to smart cameras — all lease-friendly. Read the guide → 3 Try: Do I Need a Security System? Not sure if you need a full system or just a camera? This quiz gives you the answer in under 2 minutes. Start the quiz →

Renter Picks

Our Top Picks for Renters

Every product here is wireless, renter-safe, and moves with you.

Best System SimpliSafe Wireless, no contract, peel-and-stick sensors. The top renter-friendly security system — sets up in minutes and leaves no marks. See Full Review & Score Breakdown →
Best Camera Wyze Cam v3 $36, indoor/outdoor, no hub required. Night vision, motion alerts, and local storage on a microSD card. The best value camera for renters. See Best Cameras →
Best Smart Lock August Wi-Fi Smart Lock Retrofits over your existing deadbolt — your landlord's key still works. No drilling, no replacing hardware. Remove it when you leave. See Best Smart Locks →
Best Door Reinforcement Door Security Bar No install, under $25. Wedges under any door handle to prevent forced entry. A renter essential that works on day one.
Best Window Sensor SimpliSafe Entry Sensor Peel-and-stick, no wiring. Know the moment a window or door opens. Removes cleanly when you move out — zero damage.

Guides

Guides for Renters

Deep dives on the gear and strategies that matter most for rentals.

The Complete Renter's Security Guide Door reinforcement, cameras, smart locks, and lease-friendly strategies from move-in to move-out. Read guide → Best Security Cameras Indoor, outdoor, and wire-free cameras ranked for image quality, price, and renter-friendliness. Read guide → Best Smart Locks Retrofit smart locks that work with your existing deadbolt — no landlord approval needed. Read guide → Best VPNs for Privacy Protect your traffic on shared apartment Wi-Fi. Our top VPN picks for speed, privacy, and price. Read guide →

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Common renter security questions, answered.

Can I install a security system in an apartment?

Yes. Modern wireless security systems like SimpliSafe use peel-and-stick sensors and cellular connections — no drilling, no wiring, no hardwiring into your apartment. They set up in under an hour and leave no damage when you remove them. You don't need landlord permission for most wireless systems since they don't modify the property.

Will my landlord let me add cameras?

Indoor cameras are entirely your business — you don't need permission to place a camera inside your own apartment. For outdoor cameras, check your lease. Many renters use window-mounted cameras that point outward or battery-powered cameras like the Ring Stick Up Cam that attach with adhesive mounts. No drilling means no lease violations.

What's the cheapest way to secure a rental?

Start with a door security bar (under $25) and window locks (under $15 for a pack). Add a Wyze Cam v3 for $36 and a set of SimpliSafe entry sensors with peel-and-stick mounting. Total cost: under $150 with no monthly fees required. A smart lock like the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock retrofits over your existing deadbolt so you keep your landlord's key working.

Can I take my security system when I move?

Yes — that's the biggest advantage of wireless, renter-friendly systems. SimpliSafe sensors peel off cleanly, smart locks pop off in minutes (put the original hardware back), and cameras unplug and pack in a box. Your account, settings, and monitoring transfer to your new address with a quick update in the app. Nothing is left behind.

Affiliate disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. Commissions do not influence our recommendations. Full disclosure →