Affordable Security Hacks Every Renters Need to Know
Are you feeling a little nervous about your new place? You're not alone. As a renter, you want to feel safe and secure without breaking the bank. But security systems can be expensive, and who wants to drill holes in pristine walls? Well, fret no more. This guide is packed with affordable security hacks that every renter needs to know. DIY security systems and best security systems are included.
General Tips for Affordable Home Security for Renters
Here are some of the affordable security hacks you can implement:
Get to Know Your Neighbors: Building a rapport with those around you fosters a sense of community and can be a great deterrent to crime. Neighbors who look out for each other can be a powerful security measure.
Reinforce Your Doors and Windows: Most rental agreements won't allow permanent alterations, but there are renter-friendly ways to reinforce entry points. Install a door jamb reinforcement kit on your front door to make it more resistant to kicking in. For windows, consider adding window security film, which makes them more difficult to break.
Utilize Door and Window Sensors: These battery-powered devices can be easily installed on doors and windows to detect unauthorized entry. When a sensor is triggered, it will alert your smartphone, letting you know if someone has entered your home.
Install a Video Doorbell: A video doorbell with a built-in camera lets you see who's at your door from anywhere using your smartphone. This is a great way to deter potential burglars and screen visitors before you open the door. You can even get a doorbell camera with two-way talk, which allows you to speak to visitors remotely.
Consider Self-Monitored Security Systems: Companies like Kangaroo Home Security, Ring Alarm, and SimpliSafe offer self-monitored security systems that are perfect for renters. These systems typically include door and window sensors, a base station, and sometimes even a video doorbell. You can monitor the system yourself through a smartphone app and receive alerts if there is a break-in. While not as comprehensive as professional monitoring, self-monitored systems can still be a great way to deter crime and provide peace of mind.
Get Creative with Lighting: Motion-sensor lights around your property can deter burglars who prefer to operate in darkness. You can also use smart plugs to control your lamps and create the illusion that someone is home, even when you're away.
Be Mindful of Social Media: Avoid posting about upcoming vacations or leaving your place empty on social media. This could tip off potential burglars that your home is vulnerable.
Best Home Security Companies for Renters
Highlights: Affordable, easy to install, and renter-friendly. Offers motion and entry sensors ideal for apartments.
Key Features: DIY installation, motion sensors, doorbell cameras, and self-monitoring options.
Highlights: Known for its flexible, portable security solutions tailored for renters.
Key Features: DIY home security systems, indoor cameras, and customizable security packages.
Highlights: Popular for its affordability and ease of use, with no long-term contracts.
Key Features: Ring Alarm Pro, video doorbells, outdoor cameras, and self-monitoring options.
Highlights: Offers comprehensive security solutions with professional monitoring, now with a renter-friendly self-setup option.
Key Features: ADT system, ADT self-setup, glass break sensors, and smart lock integration.
Highlights: Flexible, no-contract security systems ideal for renters, with easy installation and relocation.
Key Features: DIY home security, smart home integration, keypad entry, and window sensors.
Highlights: Renowned for its simplicity and ease of installation, perfect for renters.
Key Features: Motion sensors, indoor cameras, video doorbells, and self-monitoring capabilities.
Highlights: High-end smart home security systems with options for renters.
Key Features: Smart home devices, security cameras, smart locks, and comprehensive security system integration.
Highlights: Affordable and customizable, with easy DIY setup tailored for renters.
Key Features: Home security systems, self-monitoring options, motion sensors, and outdoor cameras.
Highlights: Offers both professional and DIY home security systems suitable for renters.
Key Features: Indoor and outdoor cameras, smart security devices, and glass break sensors.
Highlights: ADT’s DIY solution, offers flexibility and ease of installation for renters.
Key Features: ADT system, self-monitoring, video doorbells, and window sensors.
Highlights: Affordable, customizable security systems with no contracts, ideal for renters.
Key Features: DIY home security, smart home integration, motion sensors, and doorbell cameras.
Highlights: Smart home integration and easy installation, perfect for tech-savvy renters.
Key Features: Smart security, indoor and outdoor cameras, smart locks, and glass break sensors.
Kangaroo: Affordable Apartment Security System for Renters
Kangaroo offers a range of affordable security solutions specifically designed for renters.
Our devices are easy to install and remove, requiring no permanent modifications to the property.
Ideal for those who frequently move or are prohibited from making significant changes to their living spaces.
Kangaroo's security systems include:
All devices can be self-monitored through a convenient mobile app.
Provides cost-effective, renter-friendly options.
Ensures peace of mind and enhanced security without breaking the bank.
Dory Insurance Concierge
We reach out to your renter's insurance company on your behalf to help you secure discounts.
This service simplifies the process of getting the best rates on your renter's insurance by leveraging the presence of a security system.
By providing this added benefit, Dory:
Enhances the security of your home.
Ensures you receive the discounts that you deserve.
Kangaroo Pays You Back
Kangaroo offers two main subscription plans tailored to enhance their home security offerings: Camera Protect and Complete Protect plans.
Camera Protect Plan: This subscription is designed to complement Kangaroo's camera-equipped devices, providing advanced features such as cloud storage for video recordings. This ensures that footage captured by Kangaroo's indoor and outdoor cameras is securely stored and accessible remotely through their mobile app. Additionally, the Camera Protect Plan includes reimbursements for theft-related incidents involving Kangaroo devices, providing added financial protection and peace of mind for renters.
Complete Protect Plan: This comprehensive subscription plan includes all features of the Camera Protect Plan while also covering Kangaroo's full range of security devices. This includes motion sensors, entry sensors, and video doorbells, among others. Similar to the Camera Protect Plan, the Complete Protect Plan offers reimbursements for theft-related incidents involving any Kangaroo devices installed in your home. This plan allows renters to self-monitor their entire security system through Kangaroo's user-friendly app, ensuring comprehensive protection with the flexibility of managing their security needs independently.
Both plans are designed to be cost-effective and flexible, catering specifically to the needs of renters who may require easy installation, portability, and the ability to monitor their security systems remotely. By offering these subscription options with theft reimbursements, Kangaroo aims to provide accessible and robust home security solutions that enhance safety, financial protection, and peace of mind for renters without compromising on quality or affordability.
Related articles:
What Is the Best Home Security System for Your Apartment
Apartment-Friendly Security System: Protecting Your Space Without Breaking the Lease
The Ultimate Guide to Relocatable Self-Install Home Security Systems
Q&A: Affordable Apartment Security Systems
1. What are some affordable security hacks for renters?
Building Community: Getting to know your neighbors can enhance security through mutual vigilance.
Reinforcing Entry Points: Use renter-friendly methods like door jamb reinforcement kits and window security film.
Smart Devices: Install battery-powered door and window sensors and consider a video doorbell for remote monitoring.
2. Which companies offer the best home security systems for renters?
Kangaroo Home Security: Known for affordability and renter-friendly setups with options like motion sensors and doorbell cameras.
Frontpoint: Offers portable, DIY systems ideal for renters, including indoor cameras and customizable packages.
Ring Alarm: Popular for its easy setup, affordability, and features like video doorbells and outdoor cameras.
ADT: Provides comprehensive security solutions, including self-setup options, smart lock integration, and professional monitoring.
Abode: Flexible, no-contract systems with DIY installation, keypad entry, and smart home integration.
3. What features should renters consider when choosing a security system?
DIY Installation: Systems that are easy to install and remove without damaging property.
Self-Monitoring: Apps that allow remote monitoring and notifications without monthly fees.
Device Options: Look for motion sensors, doorbell cameras, indoor and outdoor cameras, and window sensors.
4. How can renters enhance security without breaking their lease?
Lighting: Use motion-sensor lights to deter intruders and create the illusion of occupancy with smart plugs.
Social Media Caution: Avoid posting vacation plans or empty house statuses to prevent attracting potential burglars.
5. What are some specific features of popular security systems suitable for renters?
Video Doorbells: Offer remote viewing and two-way talk, enhancing doorstep security (e.g., Kangaroo, Ring Alarm).
Outdoor Cameras: Monitor surroundings for added security and peace of mind (e.g., Kangaroo, Ring Alarm, ADT).
Indoor Cameras: Provide interior surveillance options for comprehensive coverage (e.g., Frontpoint, Abode).
6. How do self-monitored security systems benefit renters?
Cost-Effective: Avoid monthly monitoring fees by managing alerts and notifications through smartphone apps.
Flexibility: Easily relocate systems and adjust setup without professional assistance or penalties.
7. What role do smart home integrations play in renter-friendly security systems?
Smart Locks: Enhance convenience and security by integrating with existing smart home setups (e.g., ADT).
Smart Security Devices: Allow for seamless control and monitoring via smartphone apps (e.g., Abode, Nest Secure).
8. Are there security systems that offer flexibility for renters who move frequently?
Portable Systems: Designed for easy relocation without requiring extensive installations or modifications (e.g., Kangaroo, Frontpoint, Abode).
No-Contract Options: Provide renters with the flexibility to start or stop service without long-term commitments (e.g., Kangaroo, SimpliSafe).
9. How can renters benefit from theft reimbursements offered by security companies?
Financial Protection: Plans like Kangaroo's Complete Protect Plan cover losses due to theft of installed devices, adding a layer of financial security.
Peace of Mind: Renters can feel secure knowing that their investment in security systems is protected against theft-related risks.
10. What are the advantages of using motion sensors and window sensors in rental properties?
Detection: Alerts occupants to potential intrusions through unauthorized entry points.
Customization: Easily integrate sensors into existing security setups without altering property configurations.
Safeguarding your rental property doesn't have to be daunting or expensive. By leveraging affordable security hacks and choosing the right systems tailored for renters, you can create a safe and secure living environment without breaking the bank or violating lease agreements. Whether you opt for DIY solutions with self-monitoring capabilities or invest in smart home integrations, the key is to prioritize ease of installation, flexibility, and effective deterrence against potential threats. Remember, a few strategic measures can go a long way in ensuring your peace of mind and enjoying your rented space to the fullest.
