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Reviewed ByRebecca EdwardsFor over 12 years, SafeWise has conducted independent research and testing to write unbiased, human reviews (not robots). Read our methodology.
Wanderlust junky and mom of two, Alexia is a former police officer and U.S. Army Captain who draws on her experiences to write about a myriad of safety topics.
While a traditional home alarm system installed by an experienced security professional offers many benefits, there are also many do-it-yourself (DIY) home security systems on the market, and they are easier to install and more affordable than you think.
No drilling or technical expertise is required!
Plus, most of these DIY systems are wireless, making them a great security choice for renters who can’t drill holes in the wall. Here's your guide to security system installation.
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To install the panel, choose a place near your primary entry door and close to a power source. Often, you’ll only need to hammer a small nail into the wall to “install” the panel. If you can’t put holes in the wall, you can use removable double-sided adhesive.
Some security control panels, like ones from Cove, can also sit on a table.
Your system will include basic door and window alarm sensors and may include motion detectors. The sensors usually have a peel-and-stick backing that holds them in place yet allows them to be moved as needed. Learn more about how to install entry sensors.
Place sensors in optimum locations using the guidelines provided with your home security system or follow our guide to effective motion sensor placement.
Follow the directions outlined in the security system owner’s manual to test the alarm system and make sure everything is working properly.
Want to learn in-depth about the features, equipment, technologies, and monitoring options available in the market? Read our essential guide on home security systems.
Security package components vary from company to company, and range from basic to robust. Many DIY home security vendors offer the option of buying components by the piece so you can create a custom home alarm system. Either way, a DIY home security system consists of the following basic components.
The main panel and keypad are the brains of your DIY home security system. You’ll use the keypad to activate and deactivate the system, and if the panel is advanced, you may be able to use it to do things like program alarm settings.
Every alarm system includes window and door sensors that react when the windows or doors are opened. The number of sensors you buy depends on the number of windows and doors in your home and your personal preference.
Motion detectors are typically positioned in corners and react when motion is detected in the room. Some advanced motion detectors are paired with security cameras and start recording video when they detect movement. Depending on the system, you may be able to watch the video in real time from your phone or other internet-connected device.
Security systems protect against burglars, fires, floods, and dangerous gases. Placing sensors in the best location means you'll get fast alerts.
Don't skimp on smoke detectors when buying your DIY security system. Install one on every floor of your home, in every bedroom, and in every hallway or stairway. Like most other sensors, smoke detectors can be screwed into a bracket on the wall or mounted with adhesive.
Learn more about where to install smoke detectors for maximum safety while avoiding false alarms. We've also got a smoke detector testing and maintenance guide to help you keep this equipment in top shape.
CO detectors should be installed near bedrooms and attached garages. As with smoke alarms, make sure there's at least one CO alarm on every floor of your home.
Learn more about where to install CO detectors.
Water leak sensors rest on the floor wherever you're worried about leaks. Some have a wire probe that allows you to detect leaks in tight spaces.
If you have a chance to do so during remodeling, put a water leak sensor under the tub or under the shower valves. Toilet flanges also tend to be leaky, so put one in your basement or crawl space under a toilet connection.
Home security systems range in cost from around $200 to $600 for equipment. If you choose to go with professional monitoring, you'll also pay a monthly fee of around $32 per month.
Company | Lowest price | Self-monitoring option | Base kit price | Learn more |
| $21.99/mo. |  Yes | $249.96 (4 pieces) | View Packages | |
| $24.99/mo. |  No | $129.00 (4 pieces) | View Packages | |
| $19.99/mo. | No | Quote required Online quiz | View Packages | |
| $21.99/mo. | Yes | $279.00 (5 pieces) | View Packages | |
| $24.99/mo. | Yes | $199.99 (3 pieces) | View Packages |
Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change Read full disclaimer.
After hundreds of hours of research and hands-on testing, we came up with a list of the top DIY home security brands. Each brand has unique strengths tailored to different needs.
SimpliSafe stands out as a top overall pick, offering straightforward equipment and flexible monitoring with popular smart home integrations like Amazon and Google. Frontpoint is praised for its high-quality equipment, though it doesn’t provide a self-monitoring option. Cove shines when it comes to customer reviews, offering customized packages through an online quiz, but also limits users to professional monitoring.
For smart home enthusiasts, Abode offers the widest compatibility, working with Amazon, Google, Apple, Z-Wave, and Zigbee, while also supporting self-monitoring. Finally, Arlo is the strongest option for those who want to self-monitor, providing an easy-to-use setup with Amazon and Google compatibility.
In short, SimpliSafe delivers balance and ease, Frontpoint offers premium gear, Cove is a customer-favorite for simplicity, Abode is best for advanced smart home setups, and Arlo gives full control to users who prefer monitoring their system themselves.
Easy to install, affordable, and powerful, a DIY home security system can help protect a studio apartment in the city or a big house in the suburbs, but it isn’t the right home security solution for everyone.
Although DIY home security systems are designed for non-technical homeowners, some people don’t want to or can’t install them. There’s always the chance they will be installed improperly, and then you run the risk of going unprotected.
Some DIY systems don’t offer advanced services or components that traditional alarm systems do, such as fire and carbon monoxide monitoring, panic buttons, or pet-immune motion sensors.
Remember that a "DIY system" just means you're installing the equipment yourself. You can still monitor professional alarms with a DIY system. A monitored home security system can reduce the chance of being a burglary victim.
About 60% of convicted burglars say the presence of an alarm would make them seek a different home to burglarize. A home alarm system can also save up to 20% on homeowners insurance. So whether you choose a DIY home security system or opt for the traditional route, it is a smart investment.
Learn more about DIY vs. professional security installation and monitored vs. unmonitored systems.
Curious about how to install a specific brand? Our guides will show you what to expect.
You can also check out our Vivint installation guide for a glimpse of what happens during a professional security system install.
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