Adding a roommate to your Ring Doorbell lets them view live feeds, receive alerts, and answer the door remotely. This guide walks you through the simple process using the Ring app, ensuring secure and convenient access for everyone in your household.
Key Takeaways
- Use the Ring app to invite roommates: The primary method is through the app’s “Shared Users” feature, which sends an email invitation.
- Roommates need their own Ring account: They must create a free Ring account to accept the invitation and access the device.
- You control permissions: As the owner, you can choose what features your roommate can use, like viewing live video or reviewing past recordings.
- No extra hardware needed: Adding a roommate doesn’t require buying new devices—just an internet connection and the app.
- Remove access anytime: You can revoke a roommate’s access instantly if they move out or you no longer want them to have control.
- Works with all Ring Doorbells: This process applies to Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell Pro, Ring Doorbell Elite, and newer models.
- Keep your account secure: Always use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication to protect your Ring devices.
How to Add Roommate to Ring Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
If you live with a roommate and want them to be able to see who’s at the door, get motion alerts, or even talk to visitors through your Ring Doorbell, you’re in the right place. Adding a roommate to your Ring Doorbell is quick, easy, and doesn’t require any technical know-how. Whether you’ve just moved in together or you’ve had your Ring for years and finally want to share access, this guide will walk you through every step.
In this comprehensive how-to, you’ll learn exactly how to add a roommate to your Ring Doorbell using the Ring app. We’ll cover everything from sending the invitation to managing permissions and troubleshooting common issues. By the end, your roommate will be able to monitor your front door just like you do—without needing to log into your personal account.
Let’s get started!
Why Add a Roommate to Your Ring Doorbell?
Visual guide about How to Add Roommate to Ring Doorbell
Image source: robots.net
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about why sharing access to your Ring Doorbell is a smart idea. Living with someone means sharing responsibilities—and that includes keeping an eye on your home’s security.
When you add a roommate to your Ring Doorbell, they can:
– View live video feeds when someone approaches the door
– Receive real-time motion and doorbell alerts on their phone
– Talk to visitors using two-way audio
– Review past events and recordings (if you allow it)
– Answer the door remotely if you’re not home
This is especially helpful if you’re at work, running errands, or traveling. Your roommate can act as a second set of eyes and ears, helping to keep your home safe. Plus, it prevents the need for constant texting like, “Did you see who rang the doorbell?”
Another benefit? It strengthens trust and communication between roommates. Instead of one person controlling all the security features, you both stay informed and involved.
And don’t worry—adding a roommate doesn’t give them full control. You, as the device owner, still have the final say over settings, recordings, and who else has access.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Before you begin the process of adding your roommate, make sure you have the following:
– A Ring Doorbell (any model: Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell Pro, Ring Doorbell Elite, etc.)
– The Ring app installed on your smartphone (iOS or Android)
– Your Ring account login information
– Your roommate’s email address
– A stable Wi-Fi connection
– Your roommate’s smartphone (they’ll need it to accept the invitation)
Your roommate will also need to download the Ring app and create their own free Ring account. This is important—they can’t just use your login. Each user must have their own account for security and privacy reasons.
Once you’ve confirmed these basics, you’re ready to proceed.
Step 1: Open the Ring App and Log In
The first step is simple: open the Ring app on your phone and make sure you’re logged into your account.
If you’re not already logged in, tap “Log In” and enter your email and password. If you’ve forgotten your password, use the “Forgot Password?” link to reset it.
Once you’re in, you’ll see the home screen with your Ring devices listed. Make sure your Ring Doorbell is online and functioning properly. You should see a green dot or “Online” status next to the device name.
If your doorbell shows as offline, check your Wi-Fi connection or power source before continuing. A stable connection is essential for sharing access.
Step 2: Navigate to Device Settings
Now that you’re logged in, it’s time to access your Ring Doorbell’s settings.
Here’s how:
Tap on Your Ring Doorbell
From the home screen, tap on the image or name of your Ring Doorbell. This will open the live view or recent event feed.
Tap the Gear Icon (Settings)
In the top-right corner of the screen, you’ll see a gear icon (⚙️). Tap it to open the device settings menu.
This menu contains all the options for customizing your doorbell, including motion zones, notifications, and user access.
Step 3: Find the “Shared Users” Option
Inside the device settings, scroll down until you find the “Shared Users” section. This is where you can invite others to access your Ring Doorbell.
Tap on “Shared Users.” You’ll see a list of anyone who already has access (if any), and an option to “Add Shared User.”
If this is your first time adding someone, the list will be empty.
Step 4: Enter Your Roommate’s Email Address
Now it’s time to send the invitation.
Tap “Add Shared User”
This will open a new screen where you can enter your roommate’s email address.
Type Their Email
Carefully type in your roommate’s email address. Make sure it’s correct—this is where the invitation will be sent.
Double-check for typos. If the email is wrong, your roommate won’t receive the invite, and you’ll have to send it again.
Tap “Send Invitation”
Once you’ve entered the email, tap “Send Invitation.” The Ring system will immediately send an email to your roommate with a link to accept access.
You’ll see a confirmation message in the app saying the invitation was sent successfully.
Step 5: Your Roommate Accepts the Invitation
Now it’s your roommate’s turn to take action.
They Receive an Email
Your roommate will get an email from Ring with the subject line something like: “You’ve been invited to share a Ring device.”
The email will include a button that says “Accept Invitation” or “Join Now.”
They Must Create a Ring Account (If They Don’t Have One)
When they tap the link, they’ll be taken to the Ring website or prompted to download the Ring app.
If they don’t already have a Ring account, they’ll need to create one. This is free and only takes a minute.
They’ll enter their name, email, create a password, and verify their email address.
They Accept the Invitation
Once their account is set up, they’ll be able to accept the invitation to access your Ring Doorbell.
After accepting, the device will appear in their Ring app under “Shared Devices.”
Step 6: Set Permissions (Optional but Recommended)
As the device owner, you have full control over what your roommate can and cannot do.
When you send the invitation, you can choose their permission level. Here are the options:
– View Only: They can see live video and past recordings but can’t change settings or talk to visitors.
– Standard: They can view live video, receive alerts, talk to visitors, and review recordings. They can’t change device settings or remove the device.
– Admin: They have almost full control, including changing settings and adding other users. (Not recommended for roommates unless you fully trust them.)
For most roommates, “Standard” access is ideal. It gives them the ability to monitor the door and interact with visitors without giving them control over your device.
To set permissions:
Go Back to “Shared Users”
In the Ring app, return to the “Shared Users” section in your doorbell’s settings.
Tap on Your Roommate’s Name
You’ll see their name and email listed. Tap on it to open their profile.
Choose the Permission Level
Select “Standard” or “View Only” based on what you’re comfortable with.
Save Changes
Tap “Save” or “Update” to apply the settings.
Now your roommate has access with the permissions you’ve chosen.
Step 7: Test the Setup
Once your roommate has accepted the invitation, it’s a good idea to test everything to make sure it’s working.
Here’s how:
Have Your Roommate Open the Ring App
They should see your Ring Doorbell listed under “Shared Devices.”
Tap to View Live Feed
Ask them to tap on the device and view the live video. They should see the same feed you do.
Test Two-Way Audio
If you’ve given them “Standard” access, they should be able to press the microphone button and talk through the doorbell.
Stand near the doorbell and have them speak. You should hear their voice clearly.
Check Notifications
Walk past the doorbell to trigger motion detection. Both of your phones should receive alerts.
This confirms that alerts are being shared correctly.
If everything works, congratulations—you’ve successfully added your roommate to your Ring Doorbell!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes things don’t go as smoothly as planned. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
Roommate Didn’t Receive the Invitation Email
– Check the spam or junk folder in their email.
– Make sure you entered the correct email address.
– Resend the invitation from the “Shared Users” section.
– Ask them to check if they have any email filters blocking messages from Ring.
Invitation Link Expired
Ring invitations expire after 7 days. If your roommate didn’t accept it in time, you’ll need to send a new one.
Go back to “Shared Users,” tap “Add Shared User,” and resend the invitation.
Roommate Can’t See the Device in the App
– Make sure they’ve accepted the invitation.
– Have them log out and log back into the Ring app.
– Check that they’re using the correct email associated with the invitation.
– Ensure their app is updated to the latest version.
Live Video Isn’t Loading
– Check your Wi-Fi signal strength at the doorbell.
– Restart the Ring app on both phones.
– Reboot your router.
– Make sure your roommate has a strong internet connection on their phone.
Two-Way Audio Isn’t Working
– Confirm they have “Standard” or “Admin” permissions.
– Check the microphone and speaker settings in the app.
– Ensure the doorbell isn’t muted.
– Test during daylight hours—some models have reduced audio at night.
Alerts Aren’t Coming Through
– Go to “Device Settings” > “Motion Settings” and make sure motion alerts are enabled.
– Check that your roommate’s phone notifications are turned on for the Ring app.
– Ensure they haven’t accidentally silenced alerts.
If you’re still having trouble, visit the Ring Help Center or contact Ring Support through the app.
Tips for Managing Shared Access
Now that your roommate has access, here are some tips to keep things running smoothly:
Communicate About Usage
Talk to your roommate about when and how they’ll use the doorbell. For example, agree on whether they should answer the door when you’re not home.
Review Access Regularly
If your roommate moves out or you have a disagreement, remove their access immediately. Go to “Shared Users,” tap their name, and select “Remove User.”
Use Strong Passwords
Make sure both you and your roommate use strong, unique passwords for your Ring accounts. Avoid using the same password for multiple services.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
This adds an extra layer of security. If someone tries to log into your account, they’ll need a code sent to your phone.
Keep the App Updated
Regular updates fix bugs and improve performance. Enable automatic updates on your phones.
Respect Privacy
Just because you can view recordings doesn’t mean you should. Use the doorbell responsibly and respect each other’s privacy.
Can You Add Multiple Roommates?
Yes! You can add as many shared users as you want. Whether you live with one roommate or five, everyone can have access.
Just repeat the same process for each person:
1. Go to “Shared Users”
2. Tap “Add Shared User”
3. Enter their email
4. Send the invitation
Each person will receive their own email and must create their own Ring account.
You can assign different permission levels to different people. For example, you might give your best friend “Standard” access but only “View Only” to a temporary guest.
What If Your Roommate Moves Out?
Life changes, and so do living situations. If your roommate moves out, it’s important to remove their access right away.
Here’s how:
Open the Ring App
Log in and go to your doorbell’s settings.
Tap “Shared Users”
Find your former roommate’s name in the list.
Tap Their Name
This opens their profile.
Select “Remove User”
Confirm the action when prompted.
Once removed, they will no longer receive alerts, view live video, or access any recordings.
This protects your privacy and ensures only current residents have access.
Final Thoughts
Adding a roommate to your Ring Doorbell is a simple process that enhances home security and convenience. With just a few taps in the Ring app, you can share access to live video, alerts, and two-way audio—giving your roommate the ability to help protect your home.
Remember, you’re in control. You decide who gets access, what they can do, and when to revoke it. Whether you’re sharing with a close friend or a new housemate, this feature makes co-living safer and more connected.
By following this guide, you’ve not only learned how to add a roommate to your Ring Doorbell—you’ve also gained peace of mind knowing your home is being watched over, even when you’re not there.
So go ahead, send that invitation, and enjoy the benefits of shared security.