The Best Smart Home Technology for Rental Properties

Smart Locks

Gone are the days when you need to keep track of keys or make extra copies. Middle of the night phone calls to a locksmith are no longer necessary, nor are changing all the locks when switching tenants.

Smart lock technology has numerous features, depending on the unit purchased. Most will allow you to create unique codes to provide remote access to tenants and contractors in a limited timeframe. For a comprehensive overview of different smart locks on the market, check out this list of some of the best smart locks in 2024.

Smart Thermostats

A smart thermostat works through Wi-Fi and allows you to control the temperature of your rental through your smartphone. Many different types will allow you to set a schedule for heating and cooling and even set up geofencing so the home can be comfortable upon your arrival.  These luxury features could really attract tenants.

If you are leasing short-term rentals, this remote access can help ensure a guest doesn’t accidentally blast the AC in summer for a prolonged period or forget to turn on the heater during cold winter months.  Smart thermostats with the ENERGY STAR label have been independently tested to deliver energy savings, another benefit to a landlord’s bottom line.

If you’d like to explore detailed options, features, and pricing, check out this article by the New York Times, which explores some of the top models of 2024.

Smart Smoke & Smart Carbon Dioxide Detectors

Washington state landlord law requires rental units to be equipped with carbon monoxide alarms, smoke alarms, and heat detection. While a standard smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector will work, most smart versions will also send an alert to your smartphone so you can call emergency services.

This extra layer of security could reassure your tenant and increase the response time should an emergency arise. Similarly, if you or your tenant are not home, the alert on your phone can make you quickly aware of an issue taking place. Check out this review of the best smart smoke detectors.

Smart Water Leak Detector

Unchecked water damage can be a nightmare for landlords. Whether it’s a slow leak under the sink or an accident created by a tenant, addressing water damage quickly can save you time and money. While periodic home checks, open communication with your tenant, and an expert plumber on your team can circumvent many water issues, there is another layer of security available for your rental. A smart water leak detector will send you alerts and notifications if extra moisture or a leak is suspected in your home. There are many different types. Some need to be professionally installed by a plumber, others can be placed strategically to sense rising water or drips. There are some smart leak detectors that run cables to allow large areas of a room to be monitored.  Wired reviewed these water leak detectors, and you can also watch the video below to understand the different versions available.

Smart Noise Monitors

Great for those who manage short-term rentals, smart noise monitors ensure your property remains peaceful while still providing privacy for tenants. They detect noise levels but won’t record or transmit audio. You can receive an alert regarding occupancy limits and other compliance issues that may arise in the short-term rental market.

Smart technology has made managing a property easier than ever. There’s the ease of a smart lock and the comfort and cost savings of a smart thermostat. Keeping the home and tenants safe is easier with a smart carbon monoxide, smoke, and leak detector.  Many smart devices, such as noise detectors, offer peace of mind for owners while still respecting tenants’ privacy.

If you like your rental property but want someone else to screen tenants, quickly resolve maintenance issues, and more,  we expertly manage hundreds of properties here in Kitsap County, and we're happy to help.