Can I install security cameras in my apartment?

Can I Install Security Cameras in My Apartment?

Yes — inside your apartment you can install cameras freely. For outside areas like hallways or your front door exterior, you need landlord permission. The good news: most no-drill cameras require zero installation and are 100% renter-safe.

Outdoor Cameras

Best Outdoor Cameras for Renters (No Wiring)

Battery-powered picks for balconies and apartment entrances.

What You're Allowed to Do (and Not Do)

The rules around apartment security cameras depend on where the camera is pointing, not the camera itself. Here’s a clear breakdown:

✅ Generally Allowed

Cameras inside your unit pointing inward
Camera pointing at your own front door from inside
Plug-in cameras that require no drilling
Battery cameras placed on shelves or tables
Doorbell cameras on your own door (with permission)

🚫 Usually Requires Permission

Cameras in shared hallways or lobbies
Cameras pointing at neighbors' doors or units
Drilling holes to mount anything permanently
Cameras that record audio in common areas
Outdoor cameras on building exterior walls

Important

Always read your lease first. Some leases have specific clauses about cameras or recording devices. If unsure, ask your landlord in writing — most will say yes to indoor cameras with no drilling.

How to Ask Your Landlord (And Get a Yes)

If you want to install cameras in shared areas or mount something externally, asking the right way matters. Here’s how to get approval:

Ask in Writing (Email or Text)

Put your request in writing so there's a record. Keep it short: "I'd like to add a small battery-powered camera at my front door for personal security. It requires no drilling and I'll remove it when I move out."

Emphasize "No Drilling, No Damage"

Landlords worry about property damage. Reassure them upfront that the camera uses adhesive or a magnetic mount — no holes, no marks, removed cleanly when you leave.

Show the Specific Product

Send a link to the exact camera model. When landlords can see it's a small, unobtrusive device — not a large surveillance system — they're much more likely to approve.

How to Ask Your Landlord (And Get a Yes)

If you want to install cameras in shared areas or mount something externally, asking the right way matters. Here’s how to get approval:

System	Type	Monitoring	Starting Price	Action
Blink Mini Indoor Camera	Indoor	Optional	$34/mo	Check Deal →
Wyze Cam Pan v3	Indoor Pan/Tilt	Optional	$34/mo	Compare Plans →
Ring Video Doorbell (Battery)	Doorbell	Required	$99/mo	View Offer →
Arlo Go 2	Wireless/4G	Optional	$149/mo	Check Deal→

FAQ

Common Renter Questions

Everything you need to know about securing your rental — without breaking your lease.

Can my landlord say no to cameras inside my apartment?

Generally no — inside your own unit is your private space. However, your lease may have specific language about modifications. Indoor plug-in cameras that require no drilling are almost never restricted.

Do I need to tell my landlord I have cameras?

For cameras strictly inside your unit, you typically don’t need to notify your landlord. For anything in common areas or on the exterior, you should ask permission first — ideally in writing.

Can I install a Ring doorbell in an apartment?

Yes — the Ring Video Doorbell (battery version) mounts with adhesive strips and requires no wiring or drilling. Many renters use it successfully. For shared building doors, you’d need landlord approval.

What if my lease says "no modifications"?

“No modifications” typically refers to permanent changes like drilling holes or painting walls. A plug-in or adhesive-mount camera that leaves no trace is not a modification. When in doubt, ask your landlord in writing.

Can I use a camera without Wi-Fi in my apartment?

Yes — cameras like the Arlo Go 2 use 4G LTE and work without Wi-Fi. There are also local storage cameras that record to an SD card without any internet connection required.

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