Home security is always a concern no matter where you may be living or what the circumstances may be. You could own a house or you could be renting a property, and in both cases, a break-in or similar incident is always possible and equally distressing.
Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Importance Of Securing Your Rental Property With Video Monitoring
- Can I Put A Security Camera On My Rental Property? What Are The Rules?
- Top Security Camera Qualities To Consider For Your Rental Property
- Our List- 10 Best Security Cameras For Rental Property
- How We Choose The Best Security Camera For Rental Property
- Conclusion
Security cameras can be a great way to monitor your property and deal with incidents as they happen or after they have occurred. But which is the best security camera for a rental property? In this review, we will look at some of the best cameras on the market while also navigating the ins and outs of installing a security camera to protect your home.
Key Takeaways
- Security cameras are incredibly helpful in monitoring your property while you’re asleep or away from your home entirely.
- Security cameras can usually be installed in most rental properties, but you should consult the owner first, especially if drilling and wiring will be required.
- There are many factors to consider when choosing your camera. These can include picture quality, whether it’s wired or wireless, and if it has extra features such as AI facial detection.
- Subscriptions are required to get the full range of features out of your camera, but they are not always needed. It will be up to you to decide if the extra cost is worth it.
- Cameras can be powered in many ways, from battery to solar power or traditional wiring. Which one you choose will depend on the property and rules your landlord may have.
- We will cover 10 cameras from well-known companies like Eufy, Google, and Abode to weigh up the pros, cons, and benefits of each one. That way you will be able to decide which suits your needs.
Importance Of Securing Your Rental Property With Video Monitoring
Video monitoring can serve as a great line of defense against break-ins and general theft, and it’s a great option for anyone wanting to protect their property. We can’t monitor the exterior of our homes at all times, and this is especially true when we’re away from home.
A security camera can do that work for you; monitoring your property when you’re away, busy, or sleeping. It can make a huge difference when it comes to stopping break-ins or dealing with the fallout afterward.
We take a more detailed look at how security cameras can help keep you safe in this article on improving your home security.
Can I Put A Security Camera On My Rental Property? What Are The Rules?
The rules for this issue can vary from state to state and landlord to landlord. Generally, you should be okay to install a video camera on your rental property. However, if you will need to damage the walls by drilling holes or installing wires, then you should definitely ask for permission from your landlord first.
If that kind of damage won’t be needed, you should be okay to go for it, but consulting your landlord regardless would be a good idea anyway.
We have also covered a few more outdoor security cameras in this article we have produced in the past.
Top Security Camera Qualities To Consider For Your Rental Property
When choosing a security camera, it can be easy to get overwhelmed by all the options and features available. Knowing which ones are nice bonuses as opposed to which ones are necessary can be tricky, so we will break down some of the best features to consider.
Wired Vs Wireless
One of the first decisions you’ll likely make will be whether your camera is wired or wireless, and each has its benefits and weaknesses. Wireless cameras will typically be powered by a battery or a solar panel, meaning they’re usually easier to set up.
With wired cameras, you don’t need to worry about the power supply, but wiring and drilling will probably be necessary to install the camera, which can incur damage to the walls of the property.
Subscription Vs No Subscription
One thing you’ll notice about many security cameras is that most will offer a paid subscription service. These will often offer extra features such as cloud saving and extra monitoring options. Some cameras can still function pretty well without a subscription, but some pretty much require it to get the most out of the system.
When we look at the camera options later, we will go over how necessary the subscription is for each one, when applicable.
Picture Quality And Definition
Picture resolution is something very important to film lovers and gamers, but it can be equally important for security cameras. There’s no point in having a camera if the image will be too grainy and pixelated to see anything, so you need a decent resolution.
You should generally aim for at least 1080p HD resolutions for your cameras, but some higher-end models offer as high as 4K. The higher the better, but it’s not necessarily a dealbreaker if it’s closer to the 1080p range.
Motion Detecting And Night Vision Capabilities
Instead of recording 24/7, some cameras will have motion detectors to record only when there is movement or activity. This saves battery power and also ensures you will only have footage that matters. Some motion detecting is more advanced and can differentiate between humans and animals.
Night vision is also a huge plus, as many break-ins happen at night. Having a camera that can’t record clearly in the dark will put you at a huge disadvantage.
Weatherproofing
Your security camera will likely be exposed to the elements, which can include rain, snow, heavy winds, and harsh sunlight. You need to make sure that your camera is weatherproof so that it won’t be damaged once exposed to the elements over the years.
24 Hour Monitoring
As we mentioned earlier, some cameras will only record when there is motion detected. For more thorough recording, some can be left to monitor for 24 hours a day. Whether this is a hindrance or a benefit will depend on you, as some people prefer more specific motion recording.
Remote Monitoring Capabilities
Break-ins will also be more likely if you’re out of the house or on vacation, and that’s where security cameras can really come in handy. You will be able to monitor your property and in most cases be alerted to any suspicious activity.
This allows you to call the respective authorities even if you’re many miles away. That’s why remote monitoring is so important, especially if you’re out of the house a lot.
Battery And/Or Solar
Earlier, we briefly mentioned powering your camera. If your camera is not wired, you will generally choose between a rechargeable battery or a solar panel that charges it for you. Solar power is a huge plus if you don’t want to have to remember to recharge the battery, but most batteries will last a really long time.
Once again, it will be up to you to decide whether it’s a convenience worth paying extra for.
Smarthome Integrations
Many people make use of Smarthome features to control everything from the lighting to the security of their homes. These can be provided by companies like Amazon, Google or Apple, and they bring so much convenience to everyday life.
If a new piece of technology can be implemented into an existing Smarthome ecosystem, then that just makes things even more convenient.
Our List- 10 Best Security Cameras For Rental Property
Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera- Best Overall
The first camera that we will look at is the Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera. This camera is a great all-rounder that we feel is one of the best choices for most users looking to protect their homes. Let’s have a look at what it has to offer.
Key Features And Benefits
The Arlo Pro 4 features a great set of features that cover most of the categories we have discussed so far. These include:
- 2K Video With HDRThis camera features a crisp 2K resolution with HDR capabilities for higher visibility in various lighting conditions.
- Integrated Spotlight And Night VisionThe built-in spotlight will help you to see in lower light states, and could also be used as a deterrent against intruders. A night vision mode also helps you to see in dark conditions.
- Rechargeable BatteryThe camera features an easily rechargeable battery requiring no wiring.
- Motion AlertsYou can receive alerts straight to your smartphone when motion is detected.
- Smarthome CompatibilityThe Arlo Pro 4 is compatible with Apple Homekit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant.
Ease Of Use
Setting up the camera is quick and easy thanks to the wireless design. Once installed, you will merely need to connect it to your wifi and you’re good to go!
Pros And Cons
Overall, this camera is a great choice for anyone wanting an affordable and comprehensive camera for their property. We have seen some of the great features it offers, and its easy setup makes it ideal for people renting.
There is a trial for the optional Arlo Secure service, but you will need to subscribe to that after the trial to get the most out of your camera. These features include smarter detection, better footage access, and a feature that will alert the authorities in an emergency.
EufyCam 3
Our next pick is the EufyCam 3, a great solar powered camera option. This camera shares some similarities with the previous one but provides a few other interesting features.
Key Features And Benefits
- 4K Resolution
The EufyCam 3 features a crisp 4K resolution and can record in low-light conditions as well. - Solar Charging
The camera features a built-in solar panel which means you will never need to worry about charging or changing the battery. - Connect To Google Assistant
You can connect the EufyCam 3 to Google Assistant for features such as voice control and the setting of activity zones. - Facial Recognition
AI technology will train the camera to differentiate between trusted family members and unknown guests for smarter alerts.
Ease Of Use
Thanks to solar charging, setting up the cameras is as easy as attaching it to the wall and connecting it to the Homebase system which can further be connected to your smartphone.
Pros And Cons
When it comes to the major benefits of this camera, we would choose the 4K resolution, solar charging, and AI detection as some of the major ones.
Eufy does provide a subscription service, but they offer more features than most companies when it comes to operating without a subscription.
That being said, a Homebase system is mandatory to use the camera, so you will need to purchase one.
Google Nest Cam
The Google Nest Cam is our third pick for the best security camera for rental property, and you will see why we chose it when you check out the included features is offers.
Key Features And Benefits
- Built-In Intelligence
The Google Nest Cam features intelligent AI that will differentiate between humans, animals, and vehicles. - 1080p HD Video
The resolution of the Google Nest Cam is 1080p HD, which is lower than the previous two. This does include night vision capabilities, however. - Footage Storage
The camera will save up to 3 hours of footage in the case of a power or wifi outage. - Battery Powered
We have another battery-powered camera with this option, meaning that you will not need to wire it up. However, wires can be purchased separately for a more permanent connection. - Image Streaming
You can stream live footage directly to your smartphone.
Ease Of Use
Once again, the wireless nature of the camera makes it easy to set up and install. It can also be operated using the convenient Google app which you will need to connect it to.
Pros And Cons
This is a really great basic security camera for you to consider. We would say that the AI recognition and ease of use would be the top benefits of this particular camera. It also requires no paid subscription to get the most out of it.
The main downside is the lower resolution of the camera, but it should still be sufficient for most users.
Vision Well
The Vision Well wireless camera is the next one we will take a look at, and it has some great features to show off.
Key Features And Benefits
- Smart Motion Detection
This camera can also use AI detection to differentiate between humans, vehicles and animals. - Rechargeable Battery
The rechargeable battery of this camera will last between 1-6 months on a single charge depending on how much it is used. - 1080p Image And Night Vision
The resolution of this camera comes in at 1080p, and it does have color night vision recording. - Two-Way Audio And Siren
One nifty feature of this camera is the two-way audio capabilities that allow you to communicate back and forth with anyone in proximity of the camera. It also includes a siren and spotlight to act as an alarm for intruders. - SD Card And Cloud Storage
A separate SD card can be added to the camera to store footage locally, or you can save up to 3 days of free cloud storage. For a monthly fee, the length of cloud storage can be increased.
Ease Of Use
Once again, the wireless design of this camera makes it easy to install, and the long-lasting battery shouldn’t be something you need to worry about.
Pros And Cons
Overall, this camera is an affordable, basic option that has everything you need. Like the previous camera, it has decent motion detection capabilities, easy setup, and great options for footage storage. It is a highly functional camera even without the extra subscription.
The basic design of this camera is also a potential weakness, as it doesn’t have the advanced features of more premium cameras such as 4K resolution.
Abode Cam 2
Abode is one of the top names in security camera technology, and the Abode Cam 2 is one of the most affordable options on this list. Now, we shall take a look at whether this cheaper price comes at the cost of important features.
Key Features And Benefits
- Wifi Connected
The Abode Cam 2 can connect directly to your home wifi for ease of use. - Two Way Voice
Two way voice features are again included for communication with anyone in the vicinity. - Night Vision
Full-color night vision recording is included. - Weatherproof
The durable, weatherproof build of the camera means it will be safe from the elements.
Ease Of Use
While this is one of the simpler cameras on this list, it is the first one that requires a wired connection. This not only can make it more difficult to set up, but you would definitely want to confirm with your landlord before installing it.
Pros And Cons
This is a very basic camera that offers decent image quality, night vision recording, and a durable design.
In terms of downsides, a paid subscription will be needed for more advanced detection, and the wired connection requirements could prove a detriment to some renters.
Ring Spotlight Mount
Next, we have the Ring Spotlight Mount camera. This is another basic option that nevertheless has all the features you would expect from a basic camera.
Key Features And Benefits
- Connect To Alexa
You can connect the Ring spotlight mount directly to Alexa for voice command and two-way audio. - 1080p HD
The resolution of the Ring comes in at 1080p, and you can view footage from pretty much any connected smart device. - Motion Alerts
You can receive alerts whenever suspicious activity is detected, allowing you to act. - LED Light Strips And Siren
The built-in LED spotlight and siren can again be used to deter unwanted guests and potential thieves.
Ease Of Use
Once again, this camera requires hardwiring, making it a lot less convenient than a wired option. Once it is connected, however, operating it is fairly easy and straightforward.
Pros And Cons
This is definitely a more basic camera that should work well as an entry level option. It has decent recording quality, motion alerts, and Alexa compatibility if that is a system you use.
The hardwiring requirements are a bit of a downside, however, and it does require a paid subscription for the full range of benefits.
Manshur 4G Security Camera
The next camera we have to look at is the Manshur 4G security camera. This camera is a bit different, as it connects via a 4G connection instead of the standard wifi connection.
Key Features And Benefits
- 4G Coverage
As mentioned before this camera does not work with wifi, but instead uses a nationwide 4G network. It comes with 100 MB of free data, but after that, you will need to pay for the data usage. - Solar Panels
This camera is once again solar-powered for maximum convenience. - 360 Degree Camera
All cameras will have a blind spot, but this one has 360-degree movement to limit the blind spots. - 2K Resolution
The camera features 2K resolution quality for day and night recording. - Motion Detecting And Alerts
As with most other cameras on the list, it has motion detection and alerts that can be sent to you.
Ease Of Use
This is once again a solar-powered camera, but it does require a bit more work than other solar cameras, as the panel is separate from the camera. Once set up, it is very easy and intuitive to use.
Pros And Cons
This is a pretty great all rounder of a security camera, with high resolution and features you would expect such as motion tracking. Solar power is, as always, a huge plus.
A potential downside would be that you do need to have a data plan to use it, and that will be an extra expense.
Wyze Cam
The next camera on this list is the Wyze Cam Night Vision Camera. This is another fairly robust wired option for you to consider.
Key Features And Benefits
- Pan And Tilt
The camera will again work to eliminate blind spots with the pan and tilt feature when detecting motion. - 1080p Recording.
The resolution of this camera is 1080p, and it has night vision capabilities. The feed and footage can be viewed via the Wyze app. - Motion Detecting
The AI of the camera will detect movement and make a judgment about whether it is a threat or nothing to worry about.
Ease Of Use
As a wired camera, this is another one where you will have to install wires to operate it, and you will probably need permission once again. Other than that, the camera is simple to use and does not need a paid subscription to get the most out of it.
Pros And Cons
Overall, this is another camera that offers a basic set of features that are nevertheless very handy.
It’s always a downside to see that a wired connection is needed, as it is more hassle to set up and may be an issue for renters.
Hoibampu
You’d be hard-pressed to find a security camera easier to set up than a bulb camera, but the Hoibampu 2-piece set shows off this convenience with their set of bulb cameras.
Key Features And Benefits
- Easy Set-Up
As a bulb camera, you merely need to screw it into an existing light socket and the camera will be ready to go with no fuss. - 1080p And Night Vision
This is another option with 1080p resolution and color night vision recording. - Motion Detector
The motion detector built into the camera will detect movement and send alerts straight to your smartphone. - Works With Alexa
These cameras are both compatible with Alexa, allowing voice commands and other features.
Ease Of Use
It doesn’t get much easier than this, as most outdoor areas will have at least one compatible light socket for you to screw the bulb into. Once set up, it can be easily controlled via your smartphone as well.
Pros And Cons
The biggest benefit of this camera is just how easy it is to set up. Apart from that feature, it is also just a pretty feature-rich camera with great value, as it comes with two cameras.
The relatively low 1080p resolution may be a downside for some, but it should be sufficient for most users.
Galayou
Our penultimate camera on the list is the Galayou 2K Security camera. This is another wired camera with some useful features for you to consider.
Key Features And Benefits
- 2K Pan And Tilt
2K resolutions are a great halfway point between 1080p and 4K, and that is what this camera features. Once again, blind spots are reduced thanks to the pan and tilt feature. - 3 Vision Modes
The camera has three-night vision modes, which would include infrared, full color, and alarmed mode. - Storage Options
You have the option of sending footage to the cloud, or you can store it locally on a separate SD card. - Two Way Audio
Two-way audio is always a great addition, as it allows the camera to function as a doorbell that you can use to communicate with guests.
Ease Of Use
As a wired camera, this once again presents a potential roadblock for renters whose landlords may not be happy with the damage that installing wires may incur. It is really easy to connect to your phone and operate once installed, however.
Pros And Cons
This camera provides a really solid option with its 2K visuals, motion detecting, and pan and tilt features that lessen blind spots.
It’s worth noting that the camera can only connect to 2.4ghz wifi and is not compatible with 5 GHz.
Reolink
The final camera we have to show you is the Reolink 4MP Camera. This is another camera that offers all the standard features you would hope for, but there are a few potential drawbacks to be aware of.
Key Features And Benefits
- 1440p Visuals
The camera features an impressive 1440p recording resolution for a really clear recording. - Night Vision Up To 100ft
Night vision is one of the top features of this camera, as it can record clear images at night for up to 100ft. - Waterproof
The waterproof and weatherproof design of the camera means it will be fine even in harsh conditions. - Remote Access
Footage can be viewed and accessed via the Reolink app.
Ease Of Use
This Neolink camera is one of the least accessible products on this list. It is wired to start with, which we have seen can be a bit of a hassle. It also needs Neolink NVR recording machine to function, and that will need to be purchased separately.
Pros And Cons
This camera is essentially a pretty good option in terms of resolution and features.
The wire requirements as well as the addition of a Neolink NVR purchase being mandatory do make this a bit less convenient than some other options.
How We Choose The Best Security Camera For Rental Property
In this review, you have seen 10 cameras that each offer their strengths and weaknesses. While most share the same or similar features, it all comes down to the details. For example, we listed wired cameras as a negative for some, but that may not be an issue for you personally.
Overall, we wanted a wide range of cameras so that people in all situations and budgets can begin protecting their rental property.
Conclusion
We hope that this overview of the best security cameras for rental property protection was helpful to you! As we mentioned, we wanted to offer a wide range that you can peruse and decide for yourself.
Any one of these cameras would be a great addition to your home security setup, so we encourage you to really look at all the features and decide which ones would be most well-suited to you.
