8 Things to Consider when You’re Buying Home Security
These days, more than ever, protecting your home and family should be your number one priority. There is a home invasion in the U.S. every 12 seconds, according to data released by the F.B.I. That means in the time it takes you to read this article, 20 or more homes will be robbed. The impact of these home violations on a family is incalculable.
You don’t have to be one of those burglary statistics.
The National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association has reported that homes without security systems are three times more likely to experience home break-ins. That’s why installing the best home security system you can find is so important. It only takes a little research and probably much less money than you may think.
The entire home security sector is changing. Older, more traditional home alarm systems like ADT are hard-wired in your home. That means a technician has to come to your house and install the wires into your walls or baseboard. Plus, those wires connect to your landline phone. That means your entire home security system can be easily defeated with just a pair of wire cutters or a hammer.
What you want to look for are home monitoring systems that really take advantage of 21st Century technology–wireless home security systems with built-in layers of back-up that create a home security system that is almost impossible for any potential burglar or home intruder to defeat.
Here are the features you want to look for:
Fast monitoring. This is critical in the event of a home invasion or a medical emergency. Be sure the alarm system company you choose has Five Diamond Security Certification for its monitoring service. That way, you know you’re covered in any emergency situation, whether it’s a burglary or a medical emergency.
Self-installation. This will save you an incredible amount of money and hassle. Not “handy”? That’s not a problem. The best wireless security systems today are actually simple to install. In fact, if you’re able to use a cell phone or go online, you have the skill you need to install and use a wireless home security system.
Flexibility. Your needs change and so do the needs of your family. Is your home security system nimble enough to handle those changes? Are you able to add components easily, without incurring additional installation costs? If you move, can you take your security system with you and set it up in your new home without having to buy an entirely new system and pay for that installation?
Multiple layers of protection. These days, having a security system that’s connected to your landline phone as the sole communication with the monitoring center is just old school and old tech. Hard-wired systems like these can be completely disabled from outside your home, without you even knowing there’s been a disruption in your service. Instead, make sure your security system has different layers of back-up, that will protect you even if your power’s out and your phone lines have been cut.
Free tech support. You want to make sure the alarm system company you choose offers free tech support available if you need it.
Mobility. People today are on-the-go, with smart phones, notebooks and tablets keeping you connected to your friends and your family. You want to be sure your security company connects you to your home security system—giving you the flexibility to arm and disarm your system, monitor activities, even view video or still clips from your home. The access should be compatible with whatever device you have and should be offered at no added cost.
Guarantee. This is definitely an important consideration. What if you get your new security system and decide (for whatever reason) that you don’t like it. Are you out of luck until your contract renewal date, or can you return the system with no questions asked?
Protection when you need it. The fact that a home security company has been in business for decades doesn’t ensure fast response and excellent protection. Before you sign any contracts, take a look at consumer ratings on a consumer-run site like complaints.com and at rankings with the Better Business Bureau. Just because a company is big, that doesn’t ensure that it’s good.
