How do I keep my rental home secure?

September 25, 2009 12:41 PM

Living in Albuquerque, currently renting a house, and wondering what options are available for home security in this specific situation?

Are there any non-invasive setups for an alarm system? In particular, with no landline? A quick search online revealed a system by GE with a cellular setup, which would be a possibility, but I'm looking for more personal experiences with home security in a rental situation.

Thanks.

posted by aflores to Home & Garden (3 answers total)

Best answer: If you're there for more than a few months, it might be best/smartest to negotiate with your landlord to split the costs of installing a real security system.

You'll spend as much as you would on some wireless/less-great system, and he benefits by increasing the value of the property while paying half-price.

I've done this a couple of times. Works.
posted by rokusan at 12:48 PM on September 25, 2009

Best answer: I can't speak specifically to rental, but most alarm companies offer a cellular option (many landline-based systems still have a cellular backup on them anyway). I would get a couple of estimates and take them to the landlord. There's no loss of value in having a security system, and you'll probably find them more than willing to give you permission, and maybe kick in on the installation.
posted by Lyn Never at 1:27 PM on September 25, 2009

Best answer: I'm thinking about getting one of the InGrid systems myself. I've looked and looked and it seems pretty doable.
posted by Unicorn on the cob at 2:59 PM on September 25, 2009 [1 favorite]