Home insurance
Unlike homeowners, renters can’t always install a home security system whenever and wherever they’d like. Lease agreements, landlord approval, privacy rules, and the risk of installation damage all affect what’s allowed.
That means finding a renter-friendly security solution often requires extra research and careful planning. In this article, you’ll find a list of some of the most popular home security systems that are ideal for apartments, along with the key rules and what to check before you buy one.
Key takeaways
Before installing a home security system as a renter, make sure it complies with your landlord’s rules. It’s also worth checking installation requirements, subscription fees, and whether the system qualifies for an insurance discount. With that in mind, some of the best home security systems for apartments in Canada include:
- Ring Alarm
- Ooma Smart Security
- Abode Pro Plan
- TELUS SmartHome Security
Home security system rules for renters in Canada
In Canada, renters typically have the option to install a home security system inside the walls of their apartment, especially if it’s non-invasive and easy to remove. Devices like indoor cameras, motion sensors, or door and window alarms usually don’t require major modifications, making them ideal for renters who want extra peace of mind.
However, installing one outside your apartment, such as near your front door or on your balcony, is more complicated. These setups can raise privacy concerns for other tenants, visitors, or building staff. In fact, according to the Ontario Non-Profit Housing Association, there have been a “number of cases on this very issue that have been heard at the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) in recent years.”
To make sure you’re not violating any rules, start by reviewing your lease agreement. Look for terms like “security devices,” “alterations to the unit,” or “tenant obligations.” These sections usually outline what’s allowed and what needs landlord or written approval.
Next, check your building’s policies or resident handbook. This can usually be found on your building website or resident portal. You can also ask your property manager or landlord for a copy if you’re unable to find it. Look for mentions of “security devices,” “installation guidelines,” or “privacy considerations.”
Finally, it’s worth checking provincial or municipal rules about security cameras in apartments. With technology being more accessible and affordable than ever, new regulations may be introduced or changed as tenant safety and privacy concerns evolve.
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What to check before you buy a home security system for your apartment
Before investing in a home security system, do your due diligence to ensure it meets all your needs and complies with any applicable rules. Not every system is designed for renters, and some can be more complicated or expensive than expected. With that in mind, here’s what to check before you buy a security system:
- Rules and regulations
- Installation requirement
- Subscription fees
- Insurance discounts
Rules and regulations
The first step is to check if your lease agreement, building policies, provincial tenant board, or local by-laws allow or restrict home security systems in apartments. If your lease doesn’t explicitly mention security systems, check with your landlord before installing one. Explain what type of system you plan to install, where it will be located, and how it will be set up. Discussing your plans upfront helps avoid misunderstandings, conflicts with neighbours, or potential lease violations.
Installation requirements
Your goal should be to find out whether the system is wireless or hardwired. Most renter-friendly systems are wireless, meaning they only need Wi-Fi and use adhesive mounts instead of drilling holes into doors or walls. Check if any components need to be mounted to exterior walls, shared hallways, or ceilings, as this may violate your lease or require landlord approval. You’ll also want to consider whether the system can be easily removed without leaving damage that could affect your deposit.
Subscription fees
Home security systems aren’t always a one-time purchase. Beyond the upfront cost of equipment, there may be monthly monitoring or subscription fees. If the system is professionally monitored, make sure you understand the contract length, cancellation terms, and ongoing fees. If you want to avoid ongoing costs, self-monitored systems typically have only a one-time setup fee but may require more personal attention via an app.
Insurance discounts
Many insurance providers offer discounts on home insurance for customers who use professionally monitored security systems, since they lower the risk of theft or damage. The same may go for renters, depending on your insurance provider. If you’re shopping for renters insurance through YouSet, you don’t need to hunt for these discounts yourself. YouSet automatically checks for eligible savings and applies them for you, making it easy to protect your space while saving
The best home security systems for apartments in Canada
The ideal renter-friendly apartment security system is one that is simple to install, easy to remove, and leaves little to no damage behind. It complies with your lease agreement, building rules, or local regulations. Also, if you hope to qualify for a discount on tenant insurance, you’ll likely need to invest in a professionally monitored security system rather than a self-monitored one.
Beyond these requirements, features, ease of use, cost, and privacy protection are all factors you’ll want to weigh according to your needs.
To get started, here’s a list of some of the best renter-friendly home security systems available for apartments in Canada, as well as a brief overview of the features, installation process, and the approximate cost of each, as of October 2025.
- Ring Alarm
- Ooma Smart Security
- Abode Pro Plan
- TELUS SmartHome Security
Ring Alarm
Known for its smart doorbells, Ring also offers a home security system that’s perfect for apartments. The Ring Alarm is renter- and DIY-friendly, meaning you can install it yourself with minimal effort or damage to your apartment. For those who want extra peace of mind—or a potential discount on renters insurance —they even let you add professional monitoring.
- Availability: Available in Canada but not in Quebec
- Installation: Beginner and DIY friendly, minimal (if any) drilling required
- Equipment cost: Ring alarm system (~$200 to $350), Ring indoor camera (~$50 to $80 each)
- Subscription required: Optional
- Professional monitoring: Requires Ring Home Standard plan ($9.99 a month, $99.99 a year) or higher, plus professional monitoring add-on for $10 a month
Ooma Smart Security
Ooma Smart Security is a flexible, DIY-friendly option ideal for renters who want customizable protection without a complicated setup. You can purchase a starter kit that includes essential security products, or build your own system with devices like motion, door, and window sensors. Installation is quick and simple, and you can monitor everything through the Ooma app.
- Availability: Available in Canada but not in Quebec
- Installation: Beginner and DIY friendly, minimal (if any) drilling required
- Equipment cost: $34.99 for cheapest (garage door sensor) to $399 for the 11-sensor starter pack
- Subscription required: Optional
- Professional monitoring: Included with the Pro Secure Plan ($19.99 a month)
Abode Security System
Abode offers renter-friendly, tech-savvy home security systems that are contract-free, easy to install, and compatible with most smart home platforms, including Amazon Alexa and Google Home. Their US-based monitoring system provides 24/7 protection, while event-based history lets you replay important moments from the last 30 days. Even without a subscription, you can still view live video feeds and manage your devices remotely.
- Availability: Available in Canada, but professional monitoring is not offered in Quebec
- Installation: Easy, designed for DIY installation
- Equipment cost: Basic security kit starts at $65; advanced all-in-one kit around $200; individual add-ons (like cameras or motion sensors) from $29.99
- Subscription required: Optional
- Professional monitoring: Included with Pro Plan ($239.99 yearly)
TELUS SmartHome Security
TELUS SmartHome Security combines professional monitoring, smart home automation, and reliable protection all in one app. You can choose from flexible plans that include devices like cameras, smart locks, and plugs. The system can alert you to motion, smoke, water leaks, or other unusual activity. Whether you just want simple camera monitoring or prefer 24/7 professional security, TELUS offers many options to fit your needs.
- Availability: Available Canada-wide
- Installation: Professional installation may be required for certain devices
- Equipment cost: Included in packages
- Subscription required: Yes, SmartHome+ from $14.58 a month
- Professional monitoring: From $50 a month
Rogers Xfinity and Ecobee are two additional options available in Canada that are easy to install and use, with features that suit apartment living. However, they do not currently offer professional monitoring, which means they are unlikely to qualify for a home security discount on insurance.
