How to Install a Video Doorbell in an Apartment Without Drilling
How to Install a Video Doorbell in an Apartment Without Drilling
Learn how to securely mount a smart doorbell using non-permanent hardware to maintain your rental agreement and protect your security deposit.
What You'll Need
- Battery-powered video doorbell
- No-drill mounting bracket (brand-specific)
- Heavy-duty outdoor mounting tape (3M VHB or similar)
- Rubbing alcohol and a microfiber cloth
- Measuring tape
Steps
Step 1: Select a Battery-Powered Model
Ensure you are using a battery-operated doorbell rather than a wired version. Wired models require drilling through the exterior wall to access existing chime wiring, which is generally prohibited in rental contracts.
Step 2: Acquire a No-Drill Bracket
Purchase a third-party no-drill mounting bracket designed for your specific doorbell model. These brackets typically wrap around the door frame or use high-strength adhesives to secure the device without screws.
Step 3: Prepare the Mounting Surface
Clean the door frame or wall area using rubbing alcohol and a microfiber cloth. Removing oils, dust, and grime is critical to ensure the adhesive creates a permanent, airtight bond with the surface.
Step 4: Position and Mark the Bracket
Hold the bracket against the wall at the optimal height for package detection and facial recognition. Use a pencil or a small piece of tape to mark the exact alignment before applying any adhesives.
Step 5: Apply High-Strength Adhesive
Apply heavy-duty outdoor mounting tape to the back of the bracket. Press the bracket firmly against the prepared surface, applying consistent pressure across the entire adhesive area for 30 to 60 seconds.
Step 6: Allow Adhesive to Cure
Wait for the adhesive to set according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically 24 hours. Avoid attaching the heavy doorbell unit immediately, as the weight can cause the bracket to slide before the bond is fully cured.
Step 7: Insert and Lock the Doorbell
Slide the video doorbell into the mounted bracket and engage the security lock. Ensure the device is seated firmly so it cannot be easily removed by passersby.
Step 8: Test Connection and Angle
Check the live feed via the app to verify the viewing angle. If the image is too high or low, adjust the bracket's tilt—if applicable—to ensure the ground and the visitor's face are both visible.
Expert Tips
- Use a wedge kit if the doorbell angle is too steep, allowing for a better view of packages on the ground.
- Check your lease for specific rules regarding 'exterior modifications' to ensure adhesive mounts are permitted.
- Periodically check the adhesive bond during extreme temperature shifts, as heat can soften some mounting tapes.
- Use a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi band for better signal penetration through thick apartment walls.