Have you been thinking about home security lately? Maybe a neighbor recently experienced a break-in or you’re looking to protect your new home before the honey-do list gets any longer. Regardless of what your reason is for looking into security options, know that there is no one-size-fits-all option for protecting your home and the people you love. Here are ten things to keep in mind before purchasing a security system for your home.
You’ll be protected during power outages
This might not be new news to you, but the weather in the Southeast can be unpredictable. Even a little afternoon thunderstorm can knock out power in some areas! Rest assured that even during a power outage, many home security companies are still able to provide uninterrupted alarm monitoring. In many cases, if your power does go out, systems are equipped with a backup battery that will continue to protect your home for 8-12 hours, or sooner if the power gets turned back on.
Home security systems are affordable
You don’t need all the bells and whistles to protect your home. In fact, even on a limited budget, you can still build a security system that best fits your needs and your wallet. Starting out with an entry-level package, getting comfortable with using the system every day, and then assessing your needs to add on additional products, such as video doorbell cameras or outdoor cameras, is the best way to go.
Review company ratings
You already check social media to see what everyone is saying about the latest superhero movie, and you even scan product reviews from online retailers, so don’t forget to do the same when shopping for home security. Reading online reviews about a company can provide guidance from people who are already customers and can help you make a final decision about that company’s reliability.
Security companies offer different levels of protection
Professional monitoring is a must when it comes to security. Some companies will only provide security products (like an indoor camera and outdoor camera). In those instances, you will be responsible for monitoring and protecting your home 24/7/365. Don’t get caught up in the fancy products. There’s a difference between do it yourself and professionally protected 24/7. Do your research to see who will be looking after your home while you’re away and who will be contacting the authorities if there is an emergency.
Not all security cameras are created equal
Home security cameras might look the same when comparing them side by side, but often they don’t offer the same video resolution, camera angle, or storage capabilities. To help you choose the best option for your home, seek advice from a professional and have them demonstrate what the video quality might look like in your own house.
Check to see if the company offers perks for being a customer
Will you receive benefits the longer you are a customer with a security company? What about if you happen to move a few years after getting a new system installed, will you be able to transfer services? Always ask to see how you can benefit as a customer (outside of having your home protected).
Know the difference between monitored smoke alarms and regular smoke alarms
Will the fire department be alerted if your smoke alarm goes off? With a monitored smoke alarm, your security company will alert the authorities when there’s a fire. With a regular smoke alarm, only the people inside of the home will know the alarm is going off, and it is the homeowner’s responsibility to call the fire department if one occurs. When looking into protecting your home, don’t forget about fire protection and keep these differences in mind.
You may be able to get a discount on home insurance
Many insurance providers are happy to learn that you’re taking the initiative to keep your home and community safe. And with that, some insurers may provide a discount on insurance premiums. Ask about discounts you can apply once your new system is installed and see if certain safety features such as monitored smoke alarms or door locks will continue to lower the price you pay.
Make sure monitoring is done in–house by the same company
Always double check to see who will be monitoring your home 24/7. Smaller mom and pop companies might not have the staff available, certifications, or licensing to be able to monitor your home. Instead, they might contract out your security monitoring to a third-party and only be available to help if you have a technical difficulty or need additional products installed.
Review your contract
This might sound like simple advice, but you’d be surprised by how many people don’t read those pesky terms of service agreements before signing on the dotted line. There is nothing wrong with taking extra time to ask questions and taking time to go over the fine print. This extra step can help reveal hidden contract costs and contract lengths you might not have realized.
Everyone’s mind should be at ease knowing that their home, property, and family are protected. Learn how ADS Security can protect your home by building a system that works best for you.
