WHY LANDLORDS SHOULD AVOID INSTALLING SECURITY SYSTEMS ON RENTAL PROPERTIES: When it comes to rental properties, landlords often look for ways to make their homes more appealing to tenants. One common idea is installing a security system or surveillance cameras. While this might sound like a good selling point, in reality, it often causes more problems than it solves.
The Hassle of Account Management
Security systems require logins, passwords, and accounts that are tied to a user. Every time a new tenant moves in, the landlord would need to transfer account information or create a new profile for them. This constant back-and-forth quickly becomes confusing and time-consuming. Mistakes happen, passwords get forgotten, and managing access can turn into a headache.
Privacy Concerns for Tenants
Even if cameras are only on the exterior of the property, tenants may feel uncomfortable knowing their landlord has the ability to access or monitor footage. Privacy is one of the most important factors in a rental relationship, and anything that puts that trust in question could push good tenants away.
Removal Is the Better Option
If a property already has a security system installed, the best practice is to have it uninstalled before leasing the home. This avoids any gray areas about who has access to the system and removes potential liability if there is ever a disagreement.
Let Tenants Handle Their Own Security
The simplest and most effective solution is to allow tenants to install their own wireless security systems. These modern systems are easy to set up, cause little to no damage to the property, and can be taken with them when they move out. This gives tenants peace of mind while saving landlords the trouble of managing accounts and equipment.
Final Thoughts
While the idea of providing a security system may seem attractive at first, it rarely pays off for landlords. The hassle of account management, the risk of privacy concerns, and the ongoing maintenance just aren’t worth it. Giving tenants the freedom to handle their own security is not only easier but also builds a better landlord-tenant relationship.
