On average, rental properties are far more likely to be targeted by criminals than homes that are owned and lived in by the homeowners. This is because rental homes are usually unoccupied for long periods, making them the perfect target for burglars and other criminals. As a landlord, it is your responsibility to protect your rental property and your tenants from these threats. The best way to do this is to install a security system in your rental home.
There are many different types of security systems available on the market today. However, not all home security systems are created equal. Some security systems are more effective than others. To help you choose the best security system for your rental home, we have compiled a list of the top five things to look for in a rental home security system.
Wireless Connection
One of the most important features to look for in a rental home security system is a wireless connection. A wireless connection ensures that your security system can be easily installed and monitored, even if you are not home. Most importantly, a wireless connection allows you to remotely access your security system from anywhere in the world. This means that you can monitor your rental property and your rental tenants even when you are not on site.
Home Automation
Another important feature to look for in a rental home security system is home automation capabilities. Home automation allows you to control various aspects of your rental property from the convenience of your smartphone or other mobile devices, such as turning off lights and locking doors remotely. With smart home automation, you can also receive real-time alerts and notifications whenever something happens at your rental property.
24/7 Monitoring
As a landlord, you must have peace of mind knowing that your rental home is protected around the clock. A good rental home security system should offer 24/7 security monitoring services to ensure that your rental property is always monitored by a security team. This will give you added reassurance and peace of mind knowing that your rental home and tenants are protected at all times.
Video Surveillance
In addition to monitoring your rental home, it is also important to choose a rental home security system that includes video surveillance capabilities. This can help you keep a close eye on your rental property and the people who enter and leave it, such as potential tenants or guests. Video surveillance also provides an added layer of security in case someone attempts to break into your rental home.
Flexible Options
When choosing a rental home security system, it is important to find one that offers a range of flexible options to suit your individual needs. For example, some rental home security systems offer additional features such as pet-friendly motion detectors and smoke alarms, which can help prevent false alarms from pets or small fires. Other rental home security systems offer customizable settings to suit different rental properties, such as rental apartments versus rental homes.
Apart from the features we've mentioned above, there are other non-traditional methods that you as a landlord can invest in for that added layer of protection. These include:
Door Security Systems
Ideally, every entranceway to the home should be secured with industry-standard deadbolts and locks. This can discourage potential intruders from even attempting to break in. For rental properties with glass doorways, owners should consider installing a security film on the windows and doors. This will make it harder for burglars or other criminals to break into your rental home.
Security Lighting
Another easy way you can protect your rental property is by investing in outdoor security lighting. This will deter criminals from entering the property by providing a well-lit exterior that makes it difficult for them to hide and avoid detection.
Forming/Joining a Neighborhood Watch
While one of the most old-school forms of security, in neighborhoods that have high crime rates, something as simple as a group of neighbors determined to watch over each other can be surprisingly effective. By making sure things like the paper, garbage, or parcels are collected on time, the usual tell-tale signs of an empty house or a careless tenant are easily avoided.
Ultimately, the best rental home security system is one that offers a combination of all these features, along with 24/7 monitoring services and industry-leading customer support, something that we do very well. By carefully considering your rental home security needs and comparing different rental home security systems, you can ensure that you are well-protected against potential threats.