How to Choose a Home Security Company

Before entering into a contract with a home security company, you will need to decide how much security you need and what services you require. Follow some basic steps to assure that you have provided the best security options for you and your family and selected the best company available within your budget.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Select your home security features by reviewing options for doors, windows, pools and fire. Popular add-ons include emergency notification for senior health crises, maximum protection solutions such as safe rooms and vaults, intercoms and video surveillance systems.

2. Explore the available home security choices by reviewing purchasing tips and videos from the National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association, a trusted independent website.

3. Think about "Do It Yourself" choices without monitoring. Most home improvement centers and large hardware store sell home security systems. If monitoring is best for your situation, decide what intrusion response is needed. Some security companies offer armed response and others only offer notification of local police.

4. Consider bids from companies that provide the features you need and compare prices in your local market. Choose established licensed companies with bonded employees and insurance. Check for Underwriters Laboratories certification and compliance. Determine if the monitoring center is local or outsourced.

5. Review installation costs, contract lengths, portability terms, transfer to new owner upon sale of the property, warranty, type and cost of service contract. Get costs for leased or purchased equipment.

6. Read expert and consumer reviews of your top three choices. Note differences, pros and cons. Determine which company best fits your needs and budget. The Consumer Affairs website keeps track of consumer complaints against major home security companies. Review these complaints to see if your intended security company is among them.

7. Check with your home insurance provider to find out if they discount your rates when the security service provides them with the appropriate information after installation. Homeowners qualify for premium rate reductions by major insurance companies, if the selected security company meets certain qualifications.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid common up sells like flood, glass break and wireless entry, by being prepared with your research.
• Read your contract before signing it. Security company representatives do not always accurately state services and prices, as they are written in your contract.

Resources

• Get an overview of security options at homesecurityinformation.com.
• Find tips on security systems and companies at alarm.org.
• Check consumer complaints at consumeraffairs.com.

[jyorkie]

on 7/30/2008 On the tips section I would have to disagree, the flood upsale can be huge in certain areas so don't just overlook it. The site http://www.homesecurityadvice.com talks about not missing out on flood and other upsales.