Monitoring your home security system has never been easier, but there are several things you should consider before you commit to a long term monitoring agreement with an alarm company.
Alarm companies do most of their profit by selling security systems, it comes from accumulating a large base of alarm monitoring contracts. If the fact that these monitoring contracts are so lucrative that they are often bought and sold as mortgage notes.
Tip # 1
Ask if they have an approved alarm dealer or represents a Marketing company.
Sales compan
ies have learned to flood the market with fantastic offers on security systems for the sole purpose of selling contracts at a profit. They often use any sub-contractor available, which can lead to poor customer service when selling company leaves town.
When you find a reputable alarm company, ask them to come out to your home and give you a quote. You'll find that most will quote you a basic security system at a reasonable price. These basic security systems generally include a control panel, keypad, motion detector, a couple of door contacts, inside siren, a yard sign and warning decals.
Tip # 2
Make sure the equipment is to be monitored by an alarm company, not just by the one selling it to you. If they use proprietary security equipment, you can be in a dilemma, should you become dissatisfied with their service for any reason. Ademco, DSC, & Caddx are well known manufacturers and can be monitored by anyone.
Some companies offer a low installation charge of $ 99.00 or will give you a "free" security system. Many do it if you put a security sign in your yard in advertising and commit to a long-term alarm monitoring contract.
Since the installation charge does not cover the actual costs of equipment and manpower, you are charged a substantial monthly fee to cover their investments. These "deals" or equipment leases are not necessarily bad, but makes it difficult to assess the real cost to you over time.
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