Smart Home Checklist for Renters: Getting Your Landlord's Approval

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SmartHomeHolistic · Renter's guide

Landlord Pre-Approval Checklist for Smart Home Devices

Want a video doorbell, leak sensors or a smart lock in your rental? Use this checklist and email template to show your landlord the upgrade is safe, reversible and good for the property.

📎How to use it: download or print this list and attach it to your request email. The template is at the bottom of the page.

1 · No-damage guarantee 2 · Benefits to the landlord 3 · Privacy & compliance Email template

1The "No-Damage" Guarantee

Explain how the devices are mounted to ensure the security deposit remains intact.

Battery-powered devices on adhesive strips go up without tools and come off without a trace.

• Adhesive-Only Mounting: All sensors and cameras use 3M Command / High-Endurance adhesive strips.
• Zero-Drill Installation: No holes will be drilled into siding, doorframes, or drywall.
• 100% Reversible: All equipment will be removed upon move-out, returning the property to its exact original condition.
• Battery Powered: Devices do not require new electrical wiring or "tapping into" the building's power grid.

2Benefits to the Property & Landlord

Frame your request as an "upgrade" for them.

The "Original Key" rule: a retrofit smart lock sits on the inside of the existing deadbolt, so the outside lock and the landlord's key don't change.

• Flood & Leak Protection: Optional I am installing water leak sensors near the water heater/sinks that will alert me (and can alert you) the second a pipe drips, preventing expensive water damage.
• The "Original Key" Rule: Smart locks The smart lock I am using only replaces the interior thumb-turn. Your master key will still work on the exterior deadbolt at all times.
• Theft Deterrent: Visible (but non-permanent) doorbell cameras decrease the likelihood of package theft and vandalism on the premises.

3Privacy & Compliance

Ease the landlord's fear of neighbor complaints or legal issues.

Aim the camera at your own doorway so it doesn't record neighbors' doors or private areas.

• Field of View: Cameras are positioned to monitor the immediate entry point only and do not record private areas of neighboring units.
• Data Privacy: All footage is stored locally/privately and is not shared with third parties without a warrant.
• Maintenance Access: Acknowledge that smart locks will not be used to block emergency maintenance access.

Want a printable copy?

Open the full-size checklist image to save or print it, then attach it to your email.

✉️ The "Perfect Permission" Email Template

Copy, paste, and fill in the brackets.

Subject: Request for minor, non-permanent security upgrades at [Apartment Number]

Dear [Landlord/Property Manager Name],

I hope you're having a great week.

I'm writing to request permission to install a few non-permanent, renter-friendly smart home devices at my unit to enhance my personal security and help protect the property.

I am specifically looking at installing:

• [Device 1, e.g., A Video Doorbell] – Mounted with a "No-Drill" adhesive bracket.
• [Device 2, e.g., Smart Leak Sensors] – Placed under the kitchen sink to detect plumbing issues early.
• [Device 3, e.g., A Retrofit Smart Lock] – Only replaces the inside handle; your master key remains fully functional.

I have attached a Smart Installation Checklist that outlines my commitment to ensuring these devices cause zero damage to the property and are fully removed when my lease ends.

Please let me know if you have any questions or if you would like to see the specific product links for these items. I'm happy to jump on a quick call to discuss!

Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]

Disclaimer & Terms of Use: The information, checklists, and templates provided by SmartHomeHolistic are for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute legal or real estate advice. Every lease agreement is different. It is your sole responsibility to review your specific lease terms and obtain proper approval from your property management before modifying your unit or installing new hardware.

SmartHomeHolistic assumes no liability for property damage, loss of security deposits, lease violations, or personal injury arising from the use of this guide or the installation of any recommended products. All DIY installations are performed strictly at your own risk.

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. If you purchase a product through these links, SmartHomeHolistic may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps keep our guides free.

Disclaimer & Terms of Use: The information, checklists, and templates provided by SmartHomeHolistic are for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute legal or real estate advice. Every lease agreement is different. It is your sole responsibility to review your specific lease terms and obtain proper approval from your property management before modifying your unit or installing new hardware. SmartHomeHolistic assumes no liability for property damage, loss of security deposits, lease violations, or personal injury arising from the use of this guide or the installation of any recommended products. All DIY installations are performed strictly at your own risk. Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. If you purchase a product through these links, SmartHomeHolistic may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps keep our guides free.