Smart home technology isn’t just for homeowners anymore. From energy monitoring to voice-controlled lighting, renters across Australia are increasingly looking for ways to enjoy the convenience, efficiency and security of a connected home—without risking their bond or breaching their lease.
The good news? There are plenty of renter-friendly smart home options available. The trick is knowing what you can install freely, what requires permission, and what’s best avoided altogether. With the right choices, you can modernise your rental while keeping both your landlord and your lease agreement on side.
Early on, it’s worth noting that energy monitoring is one of the fastest-growing areas of renter-friendly smart tech. Innovative solutions like the Shelly 3EM Pro 120A Clamp demonstrate how advanced monitoring can be achieved with minimal disruption when installed correctly—making it an appealing option for renters who want better insight into their electricity usage.
Why Smart Homes Appeal to Renters
Renters often face rising energy costs, limited control over security upgrades, and restrictions on permanent modifications. Smart home devices help bridge that gap by offering:
- Better visibility over energy usage and costs
- Improved safety and security without structural changes
- Added convenience and comfort
- Technology that can move with you when you relocate
However, not all smart devices are created equal when it comes to rental properties.
Here’s What Renters Can Install (Usually Without Permission)
These smart home upgrades are typically considered temporary, non-invasive, and reversible, making them ideal for renters.
- Smart Plugs and Power Boards: Smart plugs simply connect between the wall outlet and your appliance. They’re perfect for lamps, heaters, coffee machines and entertainment systems—allowing scheduling, remote control and energy monitoring without altering the property.
- Smart Light Bulbs: Replacing standard globes with smart bulbs is one of the easiest upgrades you can make. As long as you keep the original bulbs and reinstall them when you leave, landlords rarely object.
- Wireless Sensors: Battery-powered door, window and motion sensors can be attached using removable adhesive strips. These are great for improving security and awareness without drilling holes or running cables.
- Portable Smart Speakers and Displays: Voice assistants and smart displays don’t alter the property at all. They integrate seamlessly with other devices and can be packed up and taken with you when your lease ends.
What Renters Can Install (with Landlord Permission)
Some smart upgrades are possible in rentals—but always require written approval first.
- Smart Thermostats: Because thermostats connect directly to heating and cooling systems, installation usually involves electrical work. This counts as a property modification and must be approved by the landlord.
- Video Doorbells: While popular, video doorbells often involve wiring or drilling into door frames or walls. Even battery-powered models may alter external fixtures, so permission is essential.
- Hardwired Energy Monitoring Devices: Whole-of-home energy monitors installed in switchboards can provide excellent insights, but they typically require a licensed electrician. Some landlords welcome these upgrades—especially if they improve efficiency—but approval is non-negotiable.
- Fixed Security Cameras: Any camera that is mounted permanently or wired into the property should only be installed with consent, particularly where privacy considerations apply.
What Renters Shouldn’t Install
These upgrades are generally considered inappropriate for rental properties and are best avoided.
- Rewiring electrical circuits yourself
- Installing permanent smart locks without approval
- Cutting into walls, ceilings or cabinetry for cabling
- Modifying plumbing for smart water systems
Even if a device seems small, if it causes permanent change or damage, it can put your bond at risk.
Some Tips for Renters Going Smart (Without Problems)
- Check your lease first – some agreements include specific clauses about modifications
- Always ask in writing – email approval protects both you and your landlord
- Choose reversible solutions – removable, portable, or plug-in devices are safest
- Keep original fixtures – reinstall everything before you move out
- Use licensed professionals – especially for electrical work
What’s the takeaway? Smart home living and renting are no longer mutually exclusive
With careful planning and the right device choices, renters can enjoy many of the same benefits as homeowners—without overstepping legal or contractual boundaries. Focus on non-invasive, portable smart technology, seek approval when required, and think long-term about what you’ll want to take with you to your next home. Done right, a smart rental can be just as efficient, comfortable and future-ready as a fully owned property.