A Guide to What to Ask and What to Expect
When Purchasing A Home Security System
Referrals from friends, relatives, and co-workers are a great place to start.
- Ask them if their security company has been responsive to customer service requests.
- Find out if the equipment and cost matched their expectations.
- Were the salesperson and installer professional and knowledgeable?
Think about the features you want in a home security system.
- Where will you needs keypads? Do you prefer using a touchscreen or buttons?
- Do you want to be able to remotely control the system from a smartphone app?
- Are you interested in adding home automation features now or down the line?
- Do you have garages, outbuildings, or sheds that also need security coverage?
Most companies offer free site consultations, so you can shop around. You are evaluating both cost and confidence in the company’s knowledge, experience, and service. A good security professional will have lots of suggestions, but also listen to your needs and concerns. You may want to ask:
- What is the length of the monitoring contract? Is there a penalty for cancelling early?
- What kind of equipment do you use?
- Is there a warranty on the security system?
- How does my system communicate with the monitoring station?
- If my alarm goes off, what is the procedure for verifying the alarm and dispatching authorities?
- Do you have appropriate state licensure?