The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Choosing a Home Security Company
Making the choice to install a home security system is an important part of being a responsible homeowner. However, it’s a somewhat complicated purchase. There are many things to think about when choosing a home security company, and it can be particularly confusing for beginners. Remember this step-by-step guide when evaluating home security companies, and you will have a much easier time selecting a reputable company that suits your needs.
Define Your Needs
An alarm system should not be a one-size-fits-all item. Deciding on a home security company requires that you lay out exactly what you require. The size of your home, the number of family members, and how frequently you leave the house are just a few things that you should think about when choosing a company. Ask yourself what type of threats you are seeking to mitigate, and find the company that is the best at dealing with such threats. For example, some home security systems also include monitoring for fire, water, and carbon monoxide, so it may be convenient to have the same company handle all of this.
Read Reviews
The Internet makes it possible to see dozens of reviews of security systems. Knowing what the experience of past customers has been is one of the most helpful things when choosing a home security company. Take extremely negative reviews with a grain of salt; some customers are simply the kind of people who will exaggerate every problem to the extreme. However, a pattern of negative reviews that all state the same problem may be indicative of an incompetent security company. Be sure to look up reviews on independent sites, not the testimonials that the company puts on their website.
Examine Features
There is tremendous variety among alarm systems and their features, and this can be somewhat confusing for first-time buyers. An ADT Miami security specialist will be able to explain and demonstrate the various security features for you. Consider every feature individually, and ask yourself if you really need it. A feature that is of little use to you will be nothing but a nuisance. Some companies allow you to select only the features that you want when compiling the security system. You can keep your costs to a minimum by only paying for the capabilities that are important to you.
Compare Prices
It’s important to shop around for the best price no matter what type of product you’re buying. When you’re looking at burglar alarms, be sure to factor in the monthly monitoring fee. An inexpensive system might save you money up front, but you’ll pay it back eventually if there is an exorbitant recurring cost. Likewise, a system that seems overpriced but has low monitoring costs could be worth it. Take the installation fees into account as well; some alarm companies will offer the system for next to nothing but charge a hefty fee to install it.
Consider Their Guarantees
Some South Florida ADT home security companies will offer compensation if your home is burglarized while the alarm system is active. There may also be money back guarantees so that you will get back some or all of your money if you are dissatisfied with the alarm system or service. Remember to look at the product warranty as well. After all, the electronic components that comprise alarm systems don’t last forever. See if the company offers repair or replacement parts for free within a certain timeframe. Guarantees like this show you that the company is confident in their products.
Evaluate Licenses and Certifications
Make sure that the company is in full compliance with all licensing requirements before doing business with them. While it may be legal for a company to install burglar alarms without licensing, you have no assurance that they can do a safe and effective job. A company that has gone through the effort of obtaining a license is demonstrating that they value their reputation. In addition, look up the company’s standing with consumer protection agencies like the Better Business Bureau. Some independent agencies exist for evaluating electronic security companies. If the company you are considering is approved by one of these agencies, read over their criteria.
Choosing one company out of dozens may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. You can make it easy by knowing exactly what you need, researching the company, and looking over their credentials. Keep these points in mind when you are trying to decide on a home security company.
