What are the Best Smart Locks for Apartment Renters?
Having the best smart locks for apartment renters is crucial to making your life simpler and more secure. But selecting the right one can be confusing and frustrating because of conflicting opinions. If you’re planning to install this on your apartment door, read on to learn more about important buying considerations and our suggestions for the best smart locks for apartment renters.
Overview
Home Security Needs of Apartment Renters
More living space and privacy aren’t the only needs of apartment renters. Home security is also a crucial consideration.
There’s a popular opinion that apartment living is a lot safer than living in a house. There are many reasons why people believe this. Apartments with many tenants are usually better at noticing burglars compared to single-family houses. These apartments might also have more security features and fewer entry points.
But that’s not always the case. According to the National Crime Prevention Council, apartment renters are 85% more likely to be burglarized than single-family homeowners. A survey by the Bureau of Justice Statistics arrived at the same conclusion.
This is likely because apartments receive a constant flow of people (who you don’t necessarily know) coming and going every day. This makes it easier for criminals to blend in and pick their targets. Homes, on the other hand, only have a few family members entering or leaving.
Another factor that determines the security of apartment renters is their location. If you live on the bad side of town, then of course you’re more likely to experience break-ins than living in a wealthy neighborhood.
Whether you own or rent a home, it’s important to have a working security system. While it’s important for your landlord or property manager to ensure renter safety, it’s equally important for you to take the necessary measures to keep yourself safe.
However, as a tenant, you might have limited choices for adding security. The upside is that you don’t need to spend a ton of money to make your apartment more secure. With your landlord’s approval, you can switch out your standard door locks for heavy-duty ones or smart locks for apartment renters.
That brings us to this important question: What are the best smart locks for apartment renters?
4 Best Smart Locks for Apartment Renters
Smart locks have two types: full-replacement locks and retrofit locks. If you’re renting, you’ll need a retrofit smart lock because you can easily install it without replacing your door’s existing lock hardware. To help you get started, we took the time to find four of the best smart locks for apartment renters today.
1. Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
If you’re looking for a smart lock that doesn’t require additional hardware and still supports traditional keys, the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt might be for you. It has a built-in Wi-Fi system, so you can control your lock from anywhere. The installation process is simple and quick. Plus, it can manage up to 100 personalized access codes and keep a record of all the lock openings.
Pros:
- Easy to install and repair.
- Allows remote access via Wi-Fi.
- Has a great app.
Cons:
- Unable to withstand cold and humid environments.
- Expensive.
2. SwitchBot Lock Pro
The SwitchBot Lock Pro prioritizes functionality without sacrificing convenience or style. It works great on doors with or without a handle on the outside. It’s also strong enough to handle multi-point lock systems to ensure maximum security.
The Lock Pro works with many smart home devices and voice assistants, such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Homekit, and Google Assistant. It also works with Hub Mini Matter Enabled, so you don’t need to repurchase a ton of old products.
Check for compatibility here.
Pros:
- Has long-lasting batteries and reliable passive power source.
- Multiple unlocking methods (Bluetooth, Apple watch, voice commands, etc.).
- Straightforward installation process.
- Supports physical keys.
Cons:
- Bulky appearance.
3. August WiFi 4th Gen
If your property manager is worried about the curb appeal of your apartment complex, get the August WiFi 4th Gen smart locks for apartment renters. They fit on the interior part of your door, so they don’t alter the original design of your front entrance.
You can access most of the unlocking features of the August smart locks through the brand’s dedicated mobile app. But if you want, you can also buy an extra keypad that allows you to use codes to enter your apartment. Not only that, you can use the auto-unlock function, temporary keys, or your fingerprint to easily unlock your door.
Pros:
- Reliable Wi-Fi connection through the mobile app.
- Easy and quick to install (less than 15 minutes).
- Auto-unlock feature works as advertised.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Requires you to be in the “away mode” first before the auto-unlock feature will work.
Buying Considerations for Smart Locks for Apartment Renters
When deciding on a smart lock for your apartment, keep the following things in mind:
1. Permission:
Unless stipulated in your rental agreement, renters can usually install a retrofit smart lock, such as SwitchBot Lock Pro, on their front door. But just to be sure, check with your landlord or property manager before buying a smart lock.
2. Compatibility:
These locks come in various sizes and designs to accommodate different kinds of doors. That’s why it’s important to confirm if the smart lock you’re buying is compatible with your current door and lock mechanism. You can check for this information on the manufacturer’s website.
3. Installation:
As we mentioned earlier, smart locks come in two configurations. For apartment renters, the retrofit type is best because it’s easy to install and doesn’t require replacing your current lock hardware.
4. Battery Life:
Most smart locks use batteries to operate. Some of them could last for months, depending on various factors, such as usage frequency, wireless connectivity, and exposure to extreme temperatures. In addition, make sure a smart lock offers a reliable backup power source.
Invest on the Smart Lock That Works for You
While living in an apartment is generally safe, it shouldn’t prevent you from upgrading your security measures. Fortunately, there are plenty of smart locks for apartment renters that won’t risk your security deposit or make your landlord mad.
If you’re looking for one of the best smart locks for apartment renters, the SwitchBot Lock Pro is definitely worth considering. It’s affordable, easy to install, and packed with useful features to keep your home life safer and simpler.
Check SwitchBot Lock Pro compatibility before buying >
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