For smart locks, cameras and alarm systems, a good habit is to change passwords roughly every 6–12 months, and immediately if anyone outside the family learns them. You don’t have to treat it like a bank account, but remember these devices control who enters your home and what they can see.
Use unique passwords that you don’t reuse on social media or email. If one of your old accounts gets hacked and you’ve reused the same password, someone could try it on your devices too. A short phrase with numbers and a symbol, something you can remember but others won’t guess, is usually enough.
Also review access whenever your situation changes: a tenant moves out, a helper stops working for you, a relationship ends, or you lose a phone that was logged in. That’s a natural moment to reset codes and remove old users from the app.
Smart devices make life easier, but only if you treat them with basic digital hygiene. A little effort once or twice a year keeps control firmly in your hands.
