Does anyone have any advice on effectively setting up temporary battery-operated cameras on a long-term rental property to deter break-ins and squatters while rent-ready repairs are being made before a tenant moves in?

Hello, we have a. apartment complex in LA County and want to install security cameras in the common areas.

Squatters break into vacant homes, can present fake leases, and are a valid problem, but if you have cameras on the house, you will be able to get them out right away and you will see them going in.

Install cameras around the parameter of the property today; post no trespass signs; change your for rent listing. 

Or buy a thermal camera to check for heat losses, they have gotten really cheap. 

One more thing I should address:  Installing cameras inside of a residence with other tenants can be a HUGE legal violation.  

.✅ Thirdly, in regard to objectionable tenancy and nuisance caused by disruptive tenants, you will need to document these violations with undeniable evidence.Because police reports are not usually able to be procured due to disturbances like drug trafficking or domestic violence, you’ll need to take matters into your own hands on producing that documentation.I recommend getting security cameras installed in all common areas and outside your properties.I’ve used SimpliSafe security cameras but you’ll need to install WiFi service at your properties so that you can maintain recordings in the event of violations and add to your lease that any tampering with said cameras constitutes a lease violation as well.This is still developing and once we get further clarity, we will host a round table with legal experts on how to best protect our properties and residents.

Looking for some advice.A prior tenant did some malicious damage to my property.I called police, they attended and the report said they were wearing body worn cameras.

Can I get them to come down in price or get them to install motion lights / fake cameras? 

That really isn't good enough in our opinion.Another option for you is if your property is in a realtively safe area, to install a wi-fi connected smart lock.