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What You Should Know When Shopping for a Home Security System

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Keeping your home safe and secure can be a full-time job. But how do you do it? Home security systems are an easy way to add a layer of protection to your house whether you're home or away. If you're in the market for a home security system, take a look at these tips so you'll be prepared.

Do you need a home alarm system?

The first step when shopping for a home alarm system is to determine whether or not you actually need one. They can be expensive to install and will often incur monthly fees.

If you live in an area with a low crime rate, you may already feel comfortable without a home alarm system and may want to avoid the costs. However, if you live in an area where burglaries are common, you may want to look into purchasing one to make you feel safe and secure in your home.

Home security systems

When shopping for a home security system, one of the first things you'll need to know is that there are different types: monitored and non-monitored. A monitored home security system is linked to a central response office. These alarm companies charge a monthly fee in addition to an installation fee, which is generally based on the options you choose and your contract length.
Non-monitored home alarm systems are not linked to a central office. Instead the alarm mounted to your home will contact the local police department directly should it detect an intruder. These alarm systems may also sound a siren or flash your exterior lights when it detects an intrusion. You'll eliminate monthly fees, but you run the risk of being fined by police for false alarms. You are also at the mercy of local police response times.

Choosing an installer

Just as you would when looking for a moving company, be sure to gather price quotes from different companies for installation, monitoring and monthly fees. Read reviews online and check for complaints against any companies on the Better Business Bureau website. Don't be pressured by salespeople when shopping around-- they may try different tactics to convince you to purchase right away. Steer clear of those companies.

Here are some red flags from salespeople:

  • Inability to explain how the system works. They should be able to walk you through how the system works when they're selling it to you.
  • Intimidation or pressure by citing recent break-ins or burglaries. If they fire off numbers and percentages of break-ins, burglaries or other crimes in your area, they may be just trying to scare you into purchasing a system. Do your own research before contacting any companies so you know which ones are being honest with you.

When shopping for a home security system

When shopping around for your home alarm system, be wary of companies that try to sell you proprietary systems that will solely work with their licensed monitoring systems. There are a handful of companies that not only sell alarm systems, but they also manufacture them. Make sure your alarm system is non-proprietary and that you have access to all codes and programming features.

You should also find out what happens if you decide to cancel your contract with the alarm company. Many companies offer three- or five-year contracts, so be sure to find out if the contract will allow for fee increases, penalties for breaking the contract and what installed equipment you'll be able to keep once the contract is terminated.

Ask for references and read reviews online from current or previous customers. Check on Angie's List or even Yelp for reviews of the company and reach out to any references the company offers. It will be worth it to go the extra step to ensure your house is secure and protected from even the alarm company.

Lastly, make sure the company offers to come to your home and perform a risk assessment. This visit will help determine what your particular security needs are and how to address them. Don't even consider a company that doesn't offer to do this free of charge or tells you it won't send a representative to your home.

Pricing

When collecting price quotes, make sure it includes setup/installation, equipment monthly monitoring fees and warranties. You should expect to pay $1 to $2 per square foot of your home for a basic installation. The monthly fees will vary by company and which features you choose.


If you decide against installing a home security system, make sure to take the necessary steps to keep your home or apartment secure on your own. Burglars will usually take advantage of open and unlocked doors and windows and are not as high-tech as portrayed in the movies. You can still take important measures to secure your home without an alarm system.

Ana M. Ferrer  Posted by Ana M. Ferrer on September 26, 2014

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