Best Home Security for Apartments

There is a big variety of home security systems to suit all kinds of homes, budgets, technical requirements, and customer preferences. If you live in an apartment rather than a suburban house, what kind of systems will suit you?

Apartments differ from free-standing houses or duplexes in a number of ways. An apartment with only one main entrance and a back door leading onto a balcony or fire escape is technically going to be less prone to break-ins than a house with multiple doors and windows. Many apartment blocks also have a secured main entrance with a system that lets occupants screen who’s outside, before letting them into the block.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that your apartment is completely safe from break-ins or home invasions. Many apartment renters still want the protection of a home security system, which helps to ensure the safety of loved ones and possessions.

In the past, home security systems were expensive and required professional installation. These facts turned off many renters. Fortunately, things have changed and there are now many DIY security systems on the market that are perfect for renters.

Apartment Home Security Systems – Factors to Consider

Here is a list of factors you should consider when choosing the best home security for apartments.

Living space

Apartments are generally smaller than freestanding houses or duplexes. The average apartment size in the USA is 889 square feet. Even a multi-bedroom apartment will probably have a more compact living space than the average suburban house. Home security for apartments, therefore, should be equally compact. It doesn’t have to be a big sprawling affair with multiple cameras and lots of sensors.

No outdoor area

Apartments on the upper floors don’t have a garden or yard for people to sneak around and hide out in. Therefore, your security system doesn’t need a lot of motion sensors that switch lights on when triggered.

Privacy

A camera-based security system is designed to be triggered by motion sensors. In a smaller living space, every move you make from one room to the next is going to trigger the activated system. No-one wants their bathroom visits to be monitored by the person who sees the camera feed!

On the other hand, a camera aimed at each entrance of the apartment can give you peace of mind without becoming intrusive for the occupants.  

Renting vs owning

People living in apartments are generally tenants and not the property owners. If you currently live in an apartment, chances are you’re going to move out within a few years. So why install a complicated home security system that can’t be detached easily, and can’t move right along with you?

Damage to the apartment

If you rent an apartment, your lease probably excludes any damage to walls or flooring. If you’re not allowed to hang up a simple picture using nails, or put wiring all along the paneling, you certainly don't want a security system that needs to be hammered into place.

What Type of Home Security System is Right For an Apartment?

Looking at various factors like space, length of occupation, installation, and portability; it’s easy to see that the best home security for apartments should be simple, compact and wireless. Apartments don’t need a “typical” security system with a large number of components like multiple hubs, adapters, and sensors.

The ideal system is a DIY-installed, unmonitored home security system that you can take with you if you move. Incorporated smart home features are also great for busy working people who want convenience and comfort.

Here are some of the best home security systems for apartments.

• Abode Home Security Starter Kit - This is an easy-to-install all-in-one security system packed with features.           
• Honeywell Smart Home Security Starter Kit - This is a DIY system that includes Amazon Alexa service, a built-in 1080p camera, motion detection, and more.
• Nest Secure - This is a stylish DIY smart home security system that's easy to install and configure. However, it comes at a high price.           
• Ring Alarm Security Kit - This DIY home security system offers affordable professional monitoring if you want that option.
• SimpliSafe Home Security System -This DIY, simple but effective system is a big hit with security professional and householders alike.

Home Security for Apartments Cost

Here you can see the costs and basic features of home security systems suitable for apartments.

Conclusion

Apartment living has plenty of advantages over living in a large house – compactness, convenience, simplicity. Home security systems are best when they fit into this mode of living. Pick a system that is simple, easy to install, and portable if you move - but still gives you peace of mind.

Home security systems suitable for apartments also offer lots of smart home features that fit into busy modern lives. You don’t need to skimp on technology just because you want a fairly basic system.