Best Home Security Systems for Renters

If you’re looking for a simplified solution to apartment security, look no further than SimpliSafe. With this provider, you’re not going to find a lot of superfluous bells and whistles, or extraneous features or equipment. You’re going to get rock-solid protections with straight-forward, reasonable pricing. Their most expensive equipment package costs $559.92, but unless you live in a giant apartment, it’s probably more than you need. You’re more likely going to be looking at the middle-tier packages, which range between $300 and $400. Or, you can always build your own system and be assured you’re getting the right equipment for the right price.

Most DIYers and renters like SimpliSafe’s self monitoring options, but if you decide to go with the pros, you’re probably going to be fine with the bill. SimpliSafe’s 24/7 professional monitoring packages start at just .93 cents per day. That’s probably less than you spend on coffee.

Ultimately, SimpliSafe is a great option for renters because of their affordability and flexibility. Their equipment is all modular, meaning none of it needs to be permanently installed, and it’s all very easy to set up and use. And if you decide to move, setting everything up in your new place will be a breeze, too.

ADT is best known for their robust, comprehensive security packages for single family homes — there’s a reason why you see all those blue signs all over big neighborhoods — but did you know they offer security services for apartments, too?

If you’re looking for great security from a trusted name in the business, you should check out ADT’s self-setup, DIY friendly packages. We will say their Starter and Premium packages probably come with a little more than the typical rental unit will need, so we recommend building your own package. Those systems start at $179.99, and increase the more equipment you add to them.

Also keep in mind that you will have to sign up for professional monitoring on this system, but the good news is that it’s pretty affordable at just $24.99 per month.

These days, renters have more options than ever to secure their apartments or homes. And companies like Alder make it pretty darn fast, easy, and affordable. Alder’s systems are ideal for people who rent, as their wireless equipment is simple to set up and takedown (it only takes 15 minutes), and each system comes with high-quality features like a touchscreen panel, app-based controls, and plenty of smart home automation options on Alexa and Z-Wave platforms. You’ll also enjoy 4G LTE cellular monitoring with the fastest response times in the business.

But one thing that really stands out about Alder is their down-home, customer-friendly values. From the CEO to the monitoring agents, they really seem to care about customer satisfaction. These values are evident in their guarantees — that is, Alder offers a lifetime guarantee on equipment and a move-free guarantee. When you move, they make sure you’re set up with top-notch security at your new place, even if they have to give you a new system! As you can see, renters can really benefit from Alder’s offerings.

Frontpoint is another great option for renters looking for a lot of flexibility in their system. They offer three core packages, but you have the option to add on additional pieces of equipment from a mile-long list of offerings. Everything is DIY-friendly — which means landlord-friendly, too — and from package to protection, most systems will take less than half an hour to install.

Sounds good, right? It gets better. Right now Frontpoint’s security packages are on sale. Here’s the breakdown:

Frontpoint Security Packages and Prices

If those prices are still looking a little steep, don’t worry. If you sign up for a 36 month contract, you can pay for the equipment in installments. The Starter Kit will run you $416 per month, the Home Shield is $8.68, and the Family Lookout is $11.26. That’s a little easier to swallow, right?

Here’s where it gets a little dicey, though. You’re going to have to purchase a monitoring plan when you use Frontpoint — there’s no self-monitoring option like we see in our number one pick, SimpliSafe. And it’s not cheap. At $49.99 per month, it’s actually one of the pricier monitoring packages out there. Keep in mind, though, with this subscription you’re going to have access to all of Frontpoint’s advanced features like geofencing, video analytics, smart alerts, and customizable scenes. Just something to keep in mind.

Even though Cove is quick, nimble, and cheaper than most options out there, you’re still getting 24/7 home (or apartment!) protection for better peace of mind. While using Cove, we really liked the overall user-friendliness. In fact, it only took about 15 minutes to set up out-of-the-box. A few more minutes and we were familiarized with the mobile app and touch screen control panel. And with 4G LTE cellular monitoring, the police arrived right on time when our alarm went off (oops, user error!).

Unlike many other DIY security systems, Cove doesn’t skimp on advanced features. You’ll get Alexa and Google Home integration for hands-free voice control. Then you’ve got a great feature called “Routines,” which allows you to set your alarm to automatically arm and disarm at preset times, among other functions. Finally, Cove uses innovative technology called RapidSOS Ready. If and when your alarm goes off, and it’s a verified crime in progress, Cove will relay your alarm info directly to 911 for faster response. Pretty slick!

If you can overlook a somewhat clunky mobile app, and you don’t mind paying a monthly monitoring fee, then Cove is a safe bet — especially if you currently rent.

Brinks Home Security is another well-known name in the home security market. Their pre-configured system is easy to install for renters. It includes professional 24/7 monitoring. Brinks Home Security system is great for customers who want a well-rounded home security package from a well-known, reliable company.

You can count on Brinks systems to be very reliable and secure. Brinks has been in the security business for a long time and uses patented technology to make sure that its systems are dependable.