Setting up smart devices in a rental can be tricky. Renters often face limits on what they can change or install, but that does not mean you have to skip out on new tech. There are plenty of smart home devices that do not need drilling or wiring, and you can take them with you when you move. This post looks at smart home devices that fit well in rentals. Each of these devices can make your rental more comfortable and safe, all without leaving a mark. Keep reading to see which ones might work best for your place.
Smart Plugs
Smart plugs are one of the easiest ways for renters to try home automation. Smart plugs let you control lights, fans, or other small appliances without making changes to the property. Simply plug the smart plug into the wall, then plug your device into it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to setup your smart plug with your smart home hub and you should be good to go. Many smart plugs work with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant, which also allows you to control the plug with your voice. These allow you to make your place more comfortable without requiring any permanent changes.
Smart Bulbs
Smart bulbs are a good choice for renters who want to set up a smart home without making changes to the property. These bulbs fit right into regular light fixtures, so you do not need to do any wiring or drilling. Simply replace the regular light bulb and sync it with it’s app or smart home controller. Some common smart bulb options are Philips Hue, TP-Link Kasa, Sengled, Wyze Bulb, and Lifx. You can control the brightness and color of these bulbs with your phone or voice assistant. When you move out, you can just take the bulbs with you and put the old ones back in. This makes them a simple way to add smart features to your rental without leaving any marks or damage.
Smart Home Hubs
Smart home hubs work well for renters who want easy control over their devices without making changes to the property. These hubs connect to the internet and let you manage smart bulbs, plugs, and sensors from your phone or with voice commands. Good options are the Amazon Echo Dot, Google Nest Mini, and Apple HomePod Mini. These hubs only need a power outlet and Wi-Fi. They do not require drilling or wiring, so you can take them with you when you move. This makes them a simple choice for keeping your rental set up with smart features without leaving any marks when you leave.
Battery Powered Motion Sensors
Battery-powered motion sensors are a good choice for renters who want to add smart features to their homes without making changes that could upset a landlord. These sensors do not need any wiring and usually attach with adhesive, so there is no need to drill holes. They can be placed in entryways, hallways, or any area where you want to track movement. These sensors work well with smart home hubs and can trigger lights or send alerts to your phone when motion is detected. When you move out, you can just remove them and take them with you, leaving no sign they were there.
Smart Doorbell Cameras with Adhesive Mounts
Smart doorbell cameras with adhesive mounts are a good choice for renters who want extra security without changing anything permanent about their homes. Brands like Ring and Blink have models that stick to surfaces using strong adhesive strips so there is no need for drilling or screws. These doorbells work well for people who want to see who is at the door and get alerts on their phone. Just make sure to check with your landlord or rental office if you are mounting the camera in a shared space. They are easy to remove when it is time to move out, and the adhesive usually comes off clean without leaving marks. Some models are battery-powered, which means there are no wires to deal with. This makes adhesive mount doorbell cameras a simple way for renters to add a smart feature to their entryway.
Smart Speakers
Smart speakers are one of the easiest ways for renters to enjoy hands-free entertainment without altering your space. Devices like the Amazon Echo, Google Nest Mini, and Apple HomePod Mini sit on a shelf or table and plug into any outlet. Sonos speakers bring the same voice features along with richer, room-filling sound. Just ask them to play your favorite playlists, podcasts, radio stations, or audiobooks in any room. You can group multiple speakers for whole-home audio without extra wires. They also answer questions, set alarms, skip tracks, and share news or weather reports on demand. When you move, just unplug them and pack them up—no marks, no holes, no fuss.
Stick On LED Strips
Stick on LED light strips are a good choice for renters who want more control over their lighting without making permanent changes to their space. These light strips use a peel-and-stick backing, so you do not need to use any screws or nails. Many models are controlled with an app or voice commands, so you can change the color or brightness to fit your mood. Stick on light strips often work with popular smart home systems like Amazon Alexa or Google Home, too. When it is time to move out, you just peel them off and there is usually no damage left behind.
Contact Sensors for Doors and Windows
Contact sensors for doors and windows can help renters keep track of who is coming in and out without leaving any marks or holes. These small devices use magnets to tell when a door or window is open or closed. Most models stick on with adhesive strips, so you do not need to use screws or tools. You can connect them to your phone to get alerts if something opens while you are out. We personally love the Aqara Door and Window Sensor. These sensors work with many smart home hubs and can be moved to a new place when you move out. They help renters add a bit of security and peace of mind without breaking their lease.
Wireless Security Cameras
Wireless security cameras are a common choice for renters who want to keep an eye on things without making changes to the property. Many of these cameras use adhesive mounts, sit on a shelf, or have simple stands, so you do not have to drill holes or put screws in the walls. Brands like Reolink, Aqara, and Ring offer cameras that work on Wi-Fi and can be set up quickly. Some models run on batteries, so you do not need to plug them in or deal with cords. These cameras often have apps so you can watch video from your phone. You can move them easily when you leave or want to change their location. Most of these cameras also have features like motion alerts and night vision. This makes them a good fit for renters who need security but cannot make permanent changes.
Summary
Renters have a lot of smart home options that do not need any drilling or wiring. Products like smart plugs, wireless bulbs, battery-powered cameras, and peel-and-stick sensors can all be set up in just a few minutes. When it is time to move, you can take these devices with you without leaving behind holes or marks. Smart speakers, portable hubs, and removable thermostats add more ways to control your home and make things easier. Most of these devices work with apps or voice assistants, so you can use them even if you cannot change anything permanent. With so many choices, renters do not have to miss out on smart home tech and can make their place safer and more comfortable without breaking the rules of their lease.
