Tired of fumbling for keys or worrying about spare keys floating around? Smart locks offer a fantastic solution for boosting your home security and convenience. But if you’re a renter, the idea of installing one might feel like a big no-no. Good news! Many smart locks are designed specifically with tenants in mind, allowing for easy installation and removal without damaging your landlord’s property.
A great smart lock for renters can transform your living experience, offering keyless entry, remote access for guests, and enhanced security features. No more hiding a spare key under the doormat or worrying about lost keys. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the best tenant-friendly smart locks on the market, helping you pick the perfect one to bring modern convenience to your rental home.
What Makes a Smart Lock “Renter-Friendly”?
When we talk about a smart lock for renters, we’re primarily looking for devices that:
- Don’t require permanent modifications: No drilling new holes, painting, or altering the door’s exterior.
- Are easy to install and remove: You should be able to put it in within minutes and take it with you when you move out, restoring the original lock easily.
- Keep the exterior traditional: Ideally, they only replace the interior thumbturn, leaving the outside looking exactly as your landlord expects. This is crucial for avoiding lease violations.
- Offer various unlocking methods: Keypad, app control, or fingerprint access provide flexibility.
Ready to explore some top picks? Let’s take a look!
Product Reviews
1. August Home, Silver Wi-Fi Connected Smart Keyless Entry Smart Lock
The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock stands out as a quintessential smart lock for renters because it’s designed to fit on the inside of your existing deadbolt. This means absolutely no changes to your door’s exterior, keeping your landlord happy while giving you all the modern conveniences of a smart lock. It’s perfect for maintaining curb appeal and adhering to rental agreements, yet it provides seamless keyless entry and robust smart home integration.
Key Features:
– Upgrades your existing deadbolt from the inside, maintaining exterior appearance.
– Grant access via the August app: permanent, scheduled, or temporary.
– Easy 10-minute installation over most single cylinder deadbolts.
– Auto-locks and Auto-unlocks as you approach/leave.
– Built-in Wi-Fi for direct smart home integration (Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit, etc.).
– Award-winning design and functionality.
– Optional Smart Keypad (sold separately) for code entry.
– Optional biometric authentication (Face/Fingerprint ID) with your phone.
Pros:
– Extremely renter-friendly as it doesn’t change the outside of the door.
– Very easy and quick installation.
– Hands-free auto-unlock and auto-lock features.
– Wide compatibility with smart home ecosystems.
– Allows for easy temporary access sharing for guests or service providers.
Cons:
– Requires your smartphone for primary unlocking unless a keypad is purchased separately.
– Battery life can be shorter than some other models due to Wi-Fi.
User Impressions: Customers frequently praise its ease of installation and the ability to maintain the traditional look of their door from the outside. The auto-unlock feature is a consistent favorite, making entry with full hands a breeze. While some note the battery life could be better, the convenience often outweighs this minor drawback.
2. August Home Smart Lock, 3rd Generation – Silver
The August Smart Lock 3rd Generation is another excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable, tenant-friendly smart lock. Like its Wi-Fi-connected sibling, this model works by replacing only the thumbturn on the inside of your door, leaving the exterior unchanged. It emphasizes ease of installation and removal, making it simple to revert your door to its original state when you move out – a crucial feature for any rental property.
Key Features:
– Replaces interior thumbturn, leaving exterior unchanged.
– Lock and unlock using the August app on your phone or Apple Watch.
– Auto-unlocks upon arrival and auto-locks when closed (optional).
– Quick 10-minute DIY installation on most single cylinder deadbolts.
– Explicitly stated as “renter-friendly” and easily transferable.
Pros:
– Highly renter-friendly; no modifications to the door’s exterior.
– Very simple installation and de-installation.
– Convenient auto-lock and unlock features.
– Can be taken with you when you move.
Cons:
– Requires a separate August Connect Wi-Fi bridge (sold separately) for remote access and smart home integration (unlike the Wi-Fi connected model).
– Relies solely on the app for smart features, no built-in keypad.
User Impressions: Users love the simplicity and peace of mind this lock offers, especially its “renter-friendly” nature. The ease of installation and the ability to keep their original keys as a backup are big pluses. The main downside for some is the need for an additional bridge for remote functionality, but for those who just want local app control, it’s perfect.
3. DESLOC Smart Door Lock B200, Smart Deadbolt Lock, Keyless
The DESLOC Smart Door Lock B200 offers a comprehensive keyless entry experience with multiple unlocking methods, including a lightning-fast fingerprint reader. While it provides excellent modern security features, it’s important for renters to note that this lock replaces your entire deadbolt, including the exterior portion. This means you’ll need to confirm with your landlord that such a modification is permitted, and be ready to reinstall the original deadbolt upon moving.
Key Features:
– Multiple unlocking methods: fingerprint, PIN codes, physical keys, app, eKey, fobs, Alexa/Google Voice Assistant (with G2 Gateway).
– Fast fingerprint recognition (<0.3s) with self-learning AI.
– Long 12-month battery life (4 AA batteries) with low-battery indicator and USB Type-C emergency port.
– Easy installation with just a screwdriver (replaces existing deadbolt).
– Advanced security features: IP54 waterproof, auto-lock, privacy mode, anti-peeping codes.
– Operating range from -22℉ to 158℉.
Pros:
– Versatile unlocking options, including quick fingerprint access.
– Long battery life.
– Robust security features and durable design.
– Excellent customer support and warranty.
Cons:
– Replaces the entire deadbolt, which may not be permitted by all landlords.
– Requires G2 Gateway (sold separately) for remote control via Wi-Fi.
– Modifies the exterior appearance of the door.
User Impressions: Customers are highly impressed with the speed and accuracy of the fingerprint scanner and the overall convenience of multiple entry methods. The long battery life is also a frequently praised feature. For those who can install it (often homeowners or renters with explicit landlord permission), it offers great value.
4. eufy Security Smart Lock C30, Keyless Entry, Built-in WiFi
The eufy Security Smart Lock C30 provides a seamless smart lock experience with built-in Wi-Fi, meaning no extra bridge is needed for remote control. It features physical buttons on the keypad for enhanced durability and usability, making it a reliable choice for daily entry. Similar to the DESLOC B200, this lock also replaces your full deadbolt, so renters must secure landlord approval before installation.
Key Features:
– Built-in Wi-Fi for remote control via the eufy Security app (no bridge needed).
– Multiple unlocking methods: physical key, voice commands (Alexa/Google Assistant), physical button keypad.
– Auto-lock feature with adjustable time settings.
– Easy 15-minute DIY installation (replaces deadbolt, no drilling).
– Integrated with eufy smart home ecosystem (e.g., eufy doorbell).
– 5-month battery life (4 AA batteries) with low battery indicator.
– IPX3 waterproofing and wrong-try protection.
Pros:
– Built-in Wi-Fi for remote access without an additional hub.
– Durable physical buttons, more reliable than touchscreens.
– Easy DIY installation (if permitted by landlord).
– Good security features and integration with eufy ecosystem.
Cons:
– Replaces the entire deadbolt, which requires landlord permission for renters.
– Modifies the exterior of the door.
– Battery life is shorter than some competitor models.
User Impressions: Users appreciate the direct Wi-Fi connectivity and the robust feel of the physical keypad. The ease of installation (for those able to perform it) and integration with other eufy devices are also highlights. The main consideration for renters, as with any full deadbolt replacement, is the need for landlord approval.
5. eufy Security Smart Lock C220, Fingerprint Keyless Entry
The eufy Security Smart Lock C220 ups the ante with fingerprint recognition, offering a lightning-fast way to unlock your door in less than 1.5 seconds. Its self-learning AI improves fingerprint accuracy over time, ensuring a smooth experience. Like its C30 sibling and the DESLOC, the C220 is a full deadbolt replacement, meaning renters will need to consult their lease or landlord before installing to ensure compliance.
Key Features:
– 8-month battery life with 8 AA batteries.
– Self-learning AI for improved fingerprint recognition with every touch.
– 6 ways to unlock: fingerprint, eufy Security app, keypad, physical key, Apple Watch, Alexa/Google Voice Assistant (via Wi-Fi).
– Built-in Wi-Fi for remote control via the eufy Security app (no bridge needed).
– 15-minute easy installation without drilling (replaces deadbolt).
– Integrates with the eufy ecosystem.
– IP53 waterproof and alarm for unusual entry attempts.
Pros:
– Fast and accurate fingerprint unlocking.
– Multiple convenient ways to access.
– Built-in Wi-Fi for remote control.
– Decent battery life compared to some Wi-Fi models.
– Easy installation (if landlord permits).
Cons:
– Replaces the entire deadbolt, requiring landlord approval for renters.
– Changes the exterior appearance of the door.
– Uses 8 AA batteries, which is a lot for replacement.
User Impressions: Reviewers rave about the speed and reliability of the fingerprint scanner, making daily entry incredibly convenient. The built-in Wi-Fi and multiple unlocking methods are also highly praised. Renters considering this lock should prioritize getting explicit permission from their landlord due to its full deadbolt replacement nature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can renters install a smart lock without landlord permission?
A1: It depends on the type of smart lock. If the smart lock replaces only the interior thumbturn of an existing deadbolt (like August locks), it’s generally considered less of a modification and may not require explicit permission, as the original can be easily reinstalled. However, if the smart lock replaces the entire deadbolt and alters the exterior of the door (like DESLOC or eufy models), you absolutely should get written permission from your landlord to avoid potential lease violations or damage charges. Always check your lease agreement first!
Q2: What’s the main difference between August smart locks and others like eufy/DESLOC for renters?
A2: The key difference lies in installation. August smart locks typically only replace the interior thumbturn, leaving the exterior of your door (and your existing key setup) completely untouched. This makes them highly renter-friendly. Many other smart locks, like eufy or DESLOC, replace the entire deadbolt, including the exterior keypad. While easy to install, this changes the door’s outward appearance and requires the removal and careful reinstallation of the original lock when you move, which might violate your lease without permission.
Q3: Are smart locks secure enough for a rental property?
A3: Yes, modern smart locks are designed with robust security in mind. Many offer features like auto-locking, tamper alarms, encrypted communication, and anti-peep keypads. In some ways, they can be more secure than traditional locks, as they eliminate the risk of lost keys or unauthorized key duplication. However, ensure the model you choose is built with quality materials and has good security ratings.
Q4: What happens if the smart lock’s battery dies?
A4: Most smart locks have a low-battery warning system that alerts you well in advance. In case of a dead battery, almost all models have a backup plan. This usually includes a traditional key override (for models that retain a keyhole) or an emergency power port (like a USB-C port) where you can temporarily connect a power bank to get enough juice to unlock the door.
Q5: Can I take my smart lock with me when I move out of my rental?
A5: Yes, this is a major advantage for renters! Most renter-friendly smart locks are designed for easy removal. You simply reverse the installation process, put the original lock components back in place, and take your smart lock to your next home. This makes them a great long-term investment.
Q6: Do I need a Wi-Fi bridge or hub for every smart lock?
A6: Not always. Some newer smart locks (like the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock or eufy models with built-in Wi-Fi) connect directly to your home’s Wi-Fi network for remote access and smart home integration. Other models (like the August 3rd Gen or DESLOC) may require a separate Wi-Fi bridge or hub (often sold separately) to enable remote control functions when you’re away from home. Local Bluetooth control usually works without a bridge.
Q7: How do smart locks handle temporary access for guests or service providers?
A7: This is one of the biggest perks! Smart locks, especially those controlled by an app, allow you to generate temporary PIN codes, virtual eKeys, or scheduled access windows for guests, pet sitters, or maintenance workers. You can often set expiration times for these access credentials and even revoke them instantly, providing much more control and security than sharing physical keys.
Upgrading to a smart lock for renters doesn’t have to be a complicated affair. By choosing a model that respects your rental agreement and offers easy installation and removal, you can enjoy the incredible convenience and enhanced security that smart home technology brings, all while keeping your landlord happy!