7 Questions To Ask Before Buying A Home Alarm System

Buying a home security or alarm system is a lot similar to buying groceries, it is important that you go well informed otherwise you’ll end up buying something that does not fit your needs. In order to make it easier you should approach the task of purchasing a home alarm system with a set of criteria to determine which security system is right for you. The process can be overwhelming; between equipment, monitoring packages, contracts, and all the other choices you have to make, it’s a lot to take in. We will provide you with a list of questions to ask yourself before buying a home alarm system, these questions will help you set your criteria and make the process a lot easier.

1. What kind of a security system do I want and how much am I willing to pay for it?
   The first and most important question is to determine what your security needs are and set your budget according to those needs. Home security systems can sometimes cost a lot and later people realize that they don’t need that much security equipment. So it is important to ask yourself if you require motion sensors, door and window sensors, fire alarms etc. or just simple cameras would do it.
2. Should I go DIY or professionally monitored?
   Depending on your needs you have to decide if you need a personal monitoring system on your phone or need it professionally monitored. We highly recommend using a professionally monitored system as the security company can always notify you and the police within an instant, whereas you might forget your phone somewhere and as a result miss a burglary.
3. Do I need to sign a contract?
   If you chose to go with professionally monitored service, most companies would want to sign a contract with you which could be up to 3 years long. If so read the contract document carefully to check for any price changes throughout the length of the contract. If a company doesn’t want you to sign a contract, well and good.
4. How many years has the home security company been in business for?
   While choosing a home security company it is important to know about how much field experience they have and how long they have been in the business. It would be a bonus if the companies have some successful customers as a reference.
5. Does the home security company have their own monitoring center?
   Monitoring centers can be very expensive sometimes so most small security companies simply outsource their monitoring service and that delays the reaction time. While choosing a company make sure to ask upfront if your company has its own monitoring center.
6. What type of alarm installations does the home security company offer?
   After you’ve chosen a home security company it is important to inquire about the type of equipment they are going to install at your home. Make sure the company meets all your demands in the signed contract.
7. What happens after hours if I need help with my alarm system?
   Home security is a 24/7 need and you want to choose a company that is there for you 24/7 if you need any kind of assistance if an alarm goes accidently or in case of a burglary etc.
8. What happens if I move out of my home?
   If you are going to move out of your home or even if there is a slight possibility, talk to the home security companies upfront and ask them to modify your payment plan. You do not want to move out and still keep paying for unmonitored alarms.