Changing the owner of a Ring Doorbell is essential when selling your home, gifting the device, or transferring it to a new user. This guide walks you through every step—from removing the old account to setting up the new owner—ensuring a smooth, secure transition.
Key Takeaways
- Remove the device from the old owner’s account first: You must unregister the Ring Doorbell from the original owner’s Ring app before a new user can claim it.
- Factory reset is required for most models: Physically resetting the device ensures all previous settings and data are cleared.
- New owner needs a Ring account: The person taking ownership must have their own Ring account (free or paid) to activate the device.
- Wi-Fi credentials must be re-entered: After ownership change, the new owner will need to reconnect the doorbell to their home network.
- Check compatibility with existing chimes: If using a Ring Chime or Chime Pro, ensure it’s compatible with the new owner’s setup.
- Keep proof of transfer for security: Document the handover to avoid future access disputes or support issues.
- Use the Ring app for all steps: Both old and new owners should use the official Ring app (iOS or Android) to manage the transfer.
How to Change Owner Ring Doorbell: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve got a Ring Doorbell that needs a new owner—maybe you’re moving, selling your home, or gifting it to a friend or family member. Whatever the reason, transferring ownership of your Ring Doorbell isn’t as simple as handing over the device. To ensure the new user gets full access and the old owner loses control, you need to follow a specific process.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to change owner Ring Doorbell safely and correctly. You’ll learn how to remove the device from your account, perform a factory reset, and help the new owner set it up from scratch. We’ll also cover troubleshooting tips, common mistakes to avoid, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Whether you’re dealing with a Ring Video Doorbell, Ring Doorbell 2, Ring Doorbell 3, Ring Doorbell Pro, or Ring Doorbell Elite, the steps are similar—but we’ll highlight any model-specific differences. By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident handing over your smart doorbell without leaving behind any digital footprints.
Let’s get started.
Why Changing Ownership Matters
Visual guide about How to Change Owner Ring Doorbell
Image source: sortatechy.com
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand why changing ownership is necessary. Ring Doorbells are tied to user accounts for security, notifications, and cloud storage. If you simply unplug the device and give it away, the original owner could still receive motion alerts, view live video, or access recorded footage—even from miles away.
That’s a major privacy and security risk. The new owner also won’t be able to use the doorbell properly until it’s fully registered to their account. So, a proper ownership transfer ensures:
– The old owner loses all access.
– The new owner gains full control.
– The device functions correctly on the new network.
– Cloud recordings and settings are reset.
Think of it like transferring a car: you don’t just hand over the keys—you sign the title and update the registration. The same principle applies here.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
Before beginning the ownership transfer, make sure you have the following:
- The Ring Doorbell device (obviously!)
- A smartphone or tablet with the Ring app installed (iOS or Android)
- Access to the original owner’s Ring account (email and password)
- The new owner’s email address (they’ll need to create a Ring account if they don’t have one)
- A stable Wi-Fi connection (for setup)
- A screwdriver (if you need to remove the doorbell from the wall)
- Optional: A ladder (if the doorbell is mounted high)
Having these items ready will make the process smoother and faster.
Step 1: Remove the Ring Doorbell from the Old Owner’s Account
The first and most critical step is to remove the device from the original owner’s Ring account. This ensures the new owner can claim it without conflicts.
Open the Ring App
Launch the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you’re logged in with the account that currently owns the doorbell.
Navigate to Device Settings
Tap the three horizontal lines (menu icon) in the top-left corner. Then, select Devices from the menu. You’ll see a list of all Ring devices linked to your account.
Select Your Doorbell
Find your Ring Doorbell in the list and tap on it. This will open the device dashboard.
Go to Device Health
Scroll down and tap on Device Health. This section shows the status of your doorbell, including battery level, Wi-Fi signal, and firmware.
Remove the Device
At the bottom of the Device Health screen, look for the Remove Device option. Tap it. You’ll be asked to confirm—select Remove again.
Note: Once you remove the device, it will no longer appear in your account, and you’ll lose access to live view, motion alerts, and recordings.
Wait for Confirmation
The app will process the removal. This usually takes a few seconds. Once complete, the doorbell is officially unregistered from your account.
Step 2: Perform a Factory Reset on the Ring Doorbell
After removing the device from the app, you must perform a factory reset. This clears all stored data, settings, and Wi-Fi credentials from the doorbell itself. Without this step, the new owner may not be able to set it up properly.
The reset process varies slightly depending on your Ring Doorbell model. Here’s how to do it for the most common models:
Ring Doorbell (1st Gen), Doorbell 2, Doorbell 3, and Doorbell 3 Plus
- Remove the doorbell from the mounting bracket using a screwdriver (if necessary).
- Locate the orange setup button on the back of the device.
- Press and hold the button for 20 seconds.
- The light on the front will flash, then turn solid—this means the reset is complete.
- Reattach the doorbell to the mounting bracket.
Ring Doorbell Pro and Doorbell Pro 2
- Locate the small reset button on the right side of the device (near the Ethernet port).
- Use a paperclip or SIM tool to press and hold the button for 15 seconds.
- The LED light will flash white, then turn off—this indicates a successful reset.
Ring Doorbell Elite
- Access the device through the Ethernet connection or remove it from the wall.
- Press and hold the reset button (located near the power terminals) for 15 seconds.
- The status light will blink rapidly, then stop—reset complete.
Tip: If you’re unsure which model you have, check the back of the device or the original packaging. You can also find model info in the Ring app under Device Health before removal.
Step 3: Prepare the New Owner’s Account
Now that the device is unregistered and reset, it’s time to help the new owner set it up. They’ll need their own Ring account to proceed.
Create a Ring Account (If Needed)
If the new owner doesn’t already have a Ring account, they should:
- Download the Ring app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
- Open the app and tap Create Account.
- Enter their email, create a password, and verify their phone number.
- Follow the prompts to complete setup.
Note: A free Ring account allows basic features like live view and motion alerts. For video recording, they’ll need a Ring Protect subscription (paid).
Ensure Compatibility
Make sure the new owner’s home setup is compatible with the doorbell:
- Power source: Battery-powered models (like Doorbell 2 or 3) don’t need wiring. Wired models (Pro, Elite) require existing doorbell wiring.
- Wi-Fi: The doorbell needs a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network (some newer models support 5 GHz). Signal strength should be strong at the installation location.
- Chime compatibility: If using a mechanical or digital chime, ensure it works with Ring. The Ring Chime or Chime Pro can be used as an alternative.
Step 4: Set Up the Ring Doorbell for the New Owner
With the device reset and the new owner’s account ready, it’s time to set up the doorbell from scratch.
Open the Ring App (New Owner)
The new owner should open the Ring app and log in with their account.
Tap “Set Up a Device”
On the home screen, tap the + icon or select Set Up a Device.
Select “Doorbells”
Choose Doorbells from the list of device categories.
Scan the QR Code
The app will prompt you to scan the QR code on the back of the doorbell. Use your phone’s camera to scan it. If the QR code is damaged, you can manually enter the device serial number.
Follow the On-Screen Instructions
The app will guide the new owner through the setup process, which includes:
- Connecting to Wi-Fi (they’ll need to enter their network password)
- Testing the doorbell button
- Adjusting motion zones and sensitivity
- Setting up notifications
- Choosing a location (e.g., Front Door, Side Entrance)
Mount the Doorbell (If Not Already Installed)
If the doorbell was removed during the reset, the new owner should reattach it to the mounting bracket using the provided screws. Make sure it’s secure and level.
Test the Setup
Once setup is complete, test the doorbell by pressing the button. The new owner should hear a chime (if connected) and receive a notification on their phone. They can also open the app to view live video.
Step 5: Transfer Accessories (If Applicable)
If the old owner used accessories like a Ring Chime, Chime Pro, or solar panel, these may also need to be transferred.
Ring Chime or Chime Pro
These devices are separate from the doorbell and must be removed from the old account and added to the new one.
- Old owner: Open the Ring app, go to Devices, select the Chime, and tap Remove Device.
- Factory reset the Chime by holding the setup button for 20 seconds.
- New owner: Add the Chime through the Ring app using the same setup process.
Solar Panel (for Battery Doorbells)
If the doorbell was used with a solar panel, the new owner can simply attach it to the doorbell. No app setup is required—it charges automatically.
Hardwired Transformer (for Wired Models)
If the doorbell was hardwired, ensure the transformer provides the correct voltage (16–24V AC). The new owner may need to check this if the doorbell doesn’t power on.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful steps, problems can arise during ownership transfer. Here are some common issues and how to fix them.
“Device Not Found” During Setup
If the new owner can’t find the doorbell in the app:
- Ensure the doorbell is powered (battery charged or wired correctly).
- Make sure the device was fully reset (light should flash during reset).
- Move closer to the doorbell during setup—Wi-Fi signal may be weak.
- Try scanning the QR code again or enter the serial number manually.
Wi-Fi Connection Fails
If the doorbell won’t connect to Wi-Fi:
- Double-check the Wi-Fi password.
- Ensure the network is 2.4 GHz (most Ring doorbells don’t support 5 GHz).
- Move the router closer or use a Wi-Fi extender.
- Restart the router and try again.
Old Owner Still Receives Notifications
If the original owner still gets alerts:
- Confirm the device was removed from their account.
- Check if they have shared access—remove any shared users.
- Ensure the factory reset was performed correctly.
- Contact Ring Support if the issue persists.
Doorbell Doesn’t Ring or Chime
If the new owner presses the button but nothing happens:
- Check if the Chime is connected and powered.
- Verify the doorbell is linked to the Chime in the app.
- Test the doorbell’s internal speaker (some models have one).
- Ensure the volume is turned up in the app settings.
Live View Not Working
If the camera feed won’t load:
- Check internet speed—Ring recommends at least 2 Mbps upload.
- Restart the doorbell by removing and reinserting the battery (if applicable).
- Update the Ring app to the latest version.
- Reset the doorbell and set it up again.
Best Practices for a Smooth Transfer
To avoid headaches, follow these best practices when changing ownership:
- Communicate clearly: Let the new owner know what’s included (doorbell, screws, chime, etc.) and what they’ll need (Wi-Fi, power).
- Document the transfer: Keep a record of the handover date, device model, and new owner’s contact info.
- Remove shared users: If you shared access with family or friends, remove them before transferring.
- Check firmware: After setup, the new owner should check for firmware updates in the app.
- Test everything: Before finalizing, test motion detection, live view, and notifications.
When to Contact Ring Support
Most ownership transfers go smoothly, but if you run into persistent issues, don’t hesitate to contact Ring Support.
Reach out if:
- The device won’t reset or appear in the app.
- The new owner can’t claim the device.
- You suspect the doorbell is defective.
- You need help with account recovery or shared access.
You can contact Ring Support via:
- The Help section in the Ring app
- Phone: 1-800-656-1918 (US)
- Live chat on ring.com
- Email support through the Ring website
Have your device serial number and account details ready for faster service.
Final Thoughts
Changing the owner of a Ring Doorbell doesn’t have to be complicated. By following this guide, you can ensure a secure, hassle-free transfer that protects both the old and new owner’s privacy and functionality.
Remember: always remove the device from the old account and perform a factory reset. These two steps are non-negotiable for a successful handover. Then, help the new owner set it up as if it were brand new.
Whether you’re moving, upgrading, or sharing the gift of smart home security, transferring your Ring Doorbell the right way ensures peace of mind for everyone involved.
Now go ahead—hand over that doorbell with confidence!