12 Steps to Choosing the Best Home Security
Where to Start
Installing a home security system is a really important decision to make. Sure, there aren’t many visible instant rewards. The little plastic wall boxes, flashing “eyes” and cool alarm key rings are cute, surveillance cameras are reassuring, and the signage is deterring. But having signed that contract, you want to know you’ve got the best home security for your money.
In this increasingly violent world, we need to be on guard all the time, even when it’s impossible. These are the times when you need back-up and the prime concern is your family’s well-being. But how do you ensure that the company you’ve chosen will deliver the best home security in your area, for your budget?
Get the Best
There’s a lot you can do to guarantee that the home alarm company you choose will deliver the most security for your money but do it before you sign any contracts. Although this may seem time consuming, you’d be likely to research a major purchase anyway. This translates into the best home security company for your home and family.
By doing due diligence from the get-go, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with knowledge. Use the following steps to guide you through questions you should be asking when investigating the best home security options available.
Cheaper by the Dozen
- Check the signs you see around your neighbourhood. Ask friends, family and neighbors about the companies they use.
- Know what you want; burglary or fire, phone line or wireless monitoring…or?
- How long has the company been operating? The longer the company has been in business indicates they have to be doing something right.
- Establish the security company’s rating (grade) with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Are there complaints against them?
- What is the ratio of operators to systems they service? This determines the rate of response and how quickly the appropriate authorities are notified.
- When there’s a power outage, burglars may assume that the security system isn’t working. Does the alarm system work if the power goes out?
- Are the company employees trained and certified. The best qualification is the Electronic Security Association’s National Training School (NTS) providing comprehensive electronic security instruction.
- How long is their response time? One minute or less is considered good but over one minute won’t be of much value or use. Some companies promise fast response times, but can’t always deliver so investigate their reputation.
- Find out if licensing is required in your state to install security alarm systems. Ask to see proof of these licenses and if they are current. Licensed professionals equal less chance of faulty installations or other glitches.
- Is the company registered with any industry associations such as the National Burglar & Fire Alarm Association (NBFAA) or the Security Industry Association (SIA)?
- When the time comes to ask for a quote, it should be meticulously laid out with every element itemized. Disreputable home security alarm companies often offer extremely low basic quotes. Anything else and you’re going to pay. Installation costs, monthly monitoring fees and all other charges must be detailed in writing and while you’re at it, have the salesperson sign the quote.
- Finally, the question that doesn’t get asked often enough – does the company screen potential employees? Seems like a no-brainer but it pushes up the trust factor.
One Final Tip
This final tip is indispensable! Ask the people who deal with crime every day, your local police department. They will be well aware of the companies operating in your area and are in a prime position to provide some background. You can also find out who they use for their own homes.
By following these basic guidelines, you’ll have the information needed to find the gold amongst your potential home security companies.
Put your family’s safety and the security of your home into trustworthy and capable hands. Selecting the best home security company leads to peace-of-mind
