Can I Install a Security System in a Rental Property?
The short answer to this complicated question is a yes. However, the answer will vary depending on what type of system you want to install, the type of house or unit you are renting and the length of your lease.
According to Consumer Affairs Victoria renters are able to make the following security-related changes to a property without notifying their landlord:
- installing non-permanent privacy window film
- installing a wireless doorbell
- hanging new curtains (the renter must retain the original curtains from the home)
Provided a renter is not living in a property listed in the Victorian Heritage Register, they may also install removable security devices such as an alarm system or security cameras without explicit permission. However, these security devices cannot be hardwired and must be easily removable.
On the other hand, when it comes to rentals, hardwired security systems fall under ‘reasonable changes’, meaning changes that rental providers (landlords) generally must permit, unless they have a good reason not to.
For a hardwired security system to meet the conditions of a ‘reasonable change’ the renter must ensure 3 things:
- an invoice with the name of the installer is provided to the rental provider (landlord) at the time consent is requested
- the system is installed by a suitably qualified installer, such as a Jim’s Security technician
- the system does not impact the privacy of neighbours
Keep in mind that a landlord has the right to refuse the installation of a hardwired system on the grounds of alterations being made to the property, and may instead prefer a wireless system. It is also good to be aware that some landlords may put in place conditions for installing a hard-wired system, such as once your lease is over you may have to pay for the removal of cameras.
If you are unable to obtain permission to have a hardwired system installed, then a non-invasive wireless security system is the way to go.
Can My Landlord Install CCTV?
It is not uncommon for landlords to want to install CCTV systems to protect their property, in most scenarios, this decision also protects tenants and their personal property. However, there are a number of safeguards put in place to protect tenants from potential abuses of power.
Landlords are able to install security cameras around the exterior of a home or apartment without requiring the permission of their tenants, but cannot install cameras within the inside of a home or apartment, as this is an invasion of privacy. If renting a home where your landlord has installed CCTV, it is widely recommended that you ask them to show you the exact location of each camera and request permission to access the camera feeds.
For assistance installing a new security system, don’t hesitate to contact Jim’s Security on 131 546 or book a free onsite quote. Our licensed, trained and professional technicians can help advise you on which system is most suitable based on your landlord’s requirements, give recommendations for and assist in the installation of wireless systems or install outdoor security cameras for rental providers.
