4 Rental-friendly Lighting Options to Secure Your Home 

As the days grow shorter and the nights longer in the fall and winter months, one concern arises for many: how to keep your homes secure when it’s dark outside. Adequate lighting is essential for home security and safety. Fortunately, even if you’re renting and can’t make permanent changes to your property, there are several rental-friendly outdoor lighting solutions that enhance safety without the need for major installation. 

Here are 4 lighting options to help secure your home this winter: 

If you want an easy-to-install solution that doesn’t require wiring or drilling, battery-powered motion sensor lights are perfect. These lights activate whenever motion is detected, which can alert you to any potential movement around your home. They’re ideal for placing above doors, on fences, or near a garage if you have one. 

Why they’re great for rental homes: No wiring or permanent fixtures are needed. Most models can be attached with strong adhesive or screwed into wood with minimal damage. Plus, you can easily take them with you if you move. To be sure, don’t forget to consult your property manager or landlord before making even minor changes to the exterior of your home. 

Solar-powered lights are another excellent option that provide both security and energy efficiency. These lights charge during the day and use stored energy to illuminate your yard or pathways after sunset. Many solar lights also come with motion detection features, which increase brightness when they sense movement. For optimal nighttime use, be sure the solar panels get as much direct sunlight as possible throughout the day.  

Why they’re great for rental homes: There’s no need to worry about electrical wiring or increasing your electricity bill. Simply place them in sunny spots around your home, and they’re ready to go. They’re easy to move, and there’s no lasting impact on the property. 

For homes with outdoor outlets, smart plug-in lights offer a highly customizable and tech-savvy solution. These lights can be controlled through smartphone apps or integrated with smart home systems like Alexa or Google Home. You can set schedules to ensure your home is always well-lit during the evening and night hours or use the app to turn them on and off as needed, even when you’re not home. 

Why they’re great for rental homes: Since these lights plug into standard outlets, there’s no hardwiring required. If your rental home has an exterior outlet, this option allows for flexibility and convenience. You can control the lights remotely, making it easy to manage your home’s security, even from afar. 

LED strip lights are another rental-friendly outdoor lighting solution. These lights are available in weather-resistant models, making them suitable for outdoor use. You can place them along pathways, under stair railings, or around porches to increase visibility and deter unwanted visitors. Many LED strips come with timers or remote controls for added convenience. 

Why they’re great for rental homes: They’re easy to apply and remove without damaging surfaces. These lights offer both functional and aesthetic benefits, enhancing your home’s curb appeal while improving safety. 

• Check with your property manager: Always review your lease agreement before installing any lights that require screws or semi-permanent fixtures. Contact your property manager when considering making any changes. 

• Focus on entry points: Make sure to light up doorways, windows and driveways to deter burglars and improve your visibility when you come home. 

• Look for weatherproof options: Outdoor lights should be designed to withstand rain, snow and cold temperatures, especially during winter. 

Securing your rental home with rental-friendly outdoor lighting is simple and effective. Whether you choose motion sensor lights, solar-powered options, or peel-and-stick LEDs, these solutions will not only brighten up the darker months but also provide you with peace of mind.