Congratulations on finding a nice rental! You can now make it your own and call it ‘home.’ Before you do that, you may want to install some type of alarm system for the safety and protection of your property as well as your belongings.
It’s great that you’re already thinking about taking appropriate security measures given how so many people tend to overlook the need or importance of doing that.
Burglaries have become so common, and it’s so important to protect yourself as well as your property from such unforeseen circumstances.
But how do you choose the best alarm system for your rental home?
There are so many different types available at varying costs – which one should you get?
Well, it all depends on your personal requirements, preferences, and of course, the features offered by those alarm systems.
Features to Look for
Oftentimes, landlords don’t allow renters to do anything that involves drilling holes in the walls. They even fret over installing complex security systems, especially if you tend to move frequently.
The good news for you is that many security providers do provide relocation packages and options.
Either way, there are a few useful features that you must look for when choosing an alarm system for your rental home.
- Easy installation
- Minimal equipment
- Contract-free monitoring or short contracts
- Professional monitoring
- Accessible through a mobile application
- Expandability
- Easy, convenient design
A Few Alarm System Options to Consider
A home alarm system should always be homeowners’ top priority, even if they come at a certain price.
We’ve rounded up the best types of alarm systems for your rental home at the best cost that you ought to consider.
SimpliSafe
If you are looking for easy installation and zero contracts, SimpliSafe is the best option for you.
It has been touted as ‘the best home security system overall’ and the ultimate choice for DIY home security.
It starts at $14.99 per month for professional monitoring, and if you opt for the super-basic system that includes a base station, entry sensor, motion sensor, and wireless keypad, you’ll only be paying around $230.
As the name suggests, this security system is simple and safe.
SimpliSafe is the most suitable choice for renters because it’s a comprehensive system with transparent pricing, no-contract packages, easy installation, and offers professional monitoring as well at fairly low prices.
It’s an ideal option for those renters that need basic home security and maximum protection against intruders.
Frontpoint
This all-in-one system is a great option for renters, mainly because of its simplicity. It offers super easy DIY installation with wireless components, which means that you or your landlord don’t have to worry about holes being drilled in the walls of the rental home!
Although Frontpoint’s monitoring prices are a little high, the equipment is quite affordable, and it also comes with a no-contract option.
The monitoring plans’ monthly price begins at $49.99 per month, and the best part is that it offers a consumer financing option, which makes it very easy for renters.
Frontpoint works in a quite similar manner as SimpliSafe with a wireless keypad and a hub to control the system.
It has comprehensive home automation options, responsive sensors, accessibility via a mobile app along with a large selection of equipment, to name a few.
Cove
With professional monitoring starting at $14.99 a month and basic equipment at $229, Cove provides inexpensive monitoring and a great security plus alarm system for your rental home.
It’s one of the best options for renters because there are no hidden or extra costs involved, and you don’t even have to sign any contract.
Cove’s touchscreen control panel is most liked among renters, as it lets them communicate with monitoring agents through the attached speakers if something sets off the alarm system.
This security system is said to be the best choice for apartments and renters that have short leases. It comes with low monitoring fees, zero contracts, and custom equipment packages, making it quite an all-rounder option for rental homes.
Scout
If you have a small rental such as a condo, the Scout security system is the best option for you. The equipment price starts as low as $140 if you opt for only the single entry sensor and a hub, making it quite affordable for renters.
You can also get professional monitoring at $20 a month and self-monitoring for $9.99 per month for the mobile app.
Scout’s security equipment is similar to that of SimpliSafe, but its door panel is where things get a little different.
Typical security alarm systems come with control panels featuring a code, but Scout offers a door panel, which is a little different from the usual. The pane goes on the door where you can use an RFID sticker or a key fob to arm or disarm the alarm system.
Protect Your Home At All Times
Security and alarm systems might sound expensive to you, especially if you have a limited budget, but imagine the level and amount of security they provide to your rental home. You can sleep at night peacefully and go out for long hours without having to worry about the safety and security of your home.
These systems scare off burglars and thieves, and even if someone does try to break into your property, the local authorities will be alerted immediately, given that you opted for professional monitoring. If not, at least you will be notified on your mobile phone, and you will be able to take quick action.
One of the core factors to consider when installing a security alarm system in your rental home is coverage. The system must offer enough window and door sensors to protect different areas of your home.
On a completely different note, though, if your current lease is ending and you are looking for a nice rental apartment or condo, be sure to see what’s available at Dwellsy. You will find a variety of options that fit your requirement and budget!
Looking for more renting advice check out more of our blog posts here.