Buying a security system is a big investment in your home’s safety and your family’s peace of mind. The system you choose will be installed on your property and you will need to pay monthly (in most cases) to enjoy the service. You want a system that will protect your possessions and your loved ones correctly. To find the right fit for your needs, you’ll want to ask lots of questions and compare a few systems.
In fact, it can be useful to compile a list of queries you have. We’ve created a list of questions to ask before buying a security system so you can start thinking long-term for your family’s safety.
Before you start calling security companies to get quotes, there are a few questions you’ll want to ask yourself. For example:
1) Do I want a commercial or residential system?
Residential and commercial systems are very different, because the needs of families and businesses are not the same. Residential alarms are often about discouraging break-ins and the focus tends to be on ensuring personal safety. For this reason, residential systems may have panic alarms or ways for homeowners to alert the police.
Commercial systems, on the other hand, are designed to protect business property as well as employees. For insurance purposes, these systems may need to meet certain benchmarks or standards. Commercial systems are also more likely to have silent alarms, video surveillance, and other features.
While most homeowners think they need a residential system, you may need to reconsider if you run a business from home. You may wish to examine both commercial systems and residential systems and get advice from a security company to find the right fit for you.
2) What security devices do I need for my home?
The devices you need for your home will vary depending on your specific situation, but in general many homeowners need:
- A fire safety system. Unmonitored smoke detectors and fire extinguishers may not help if you are not at home. A fire detection system linked to your security system can alert you of a fire even if you’re not at home.
- A carbon monoxide system. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can become fatal very quickly. A security system linked to a carbon monoxide detector can continuously monitor your home to keep you and your family safe.
- A security system to protect against break-ins. A system that involves an alarm and sensors can alert you if someone is trying to enter your home.
- Security cameras. Security cameras can alert you if there is any suspicious activity on your property and can provide you with evidence you can give police.
- Motion detectors. Motion detectors can alert you if someone is in your home, by your pool, or in any area you want monitored.
- Personal alarms. Personal alarms can be worn or can be kept on a keychain. When pressed, they activate the security alarm and can summon help. If you have a medical emergency or you are trapped in your home, a personal alarm can help you. These alarms can be especially useful for elderly relatives and anyone in your home who needs additional help to call for emergency assistance. These devices are easy to use and ensure help is always available, so they can offer some independence.
- Child monitors. Baby monitors and nanny cams (if legal in your community) can ensure your children are safe when they are in their rooms or with a caregiver.
- A flood alert system. Linked to your security system, a flood alert system lets you know if your home or basement has been flooded or has experienced water damage.
3) How can these security systems protect me?
Home security systems work by a system of electronic devices. These devices are installed in your home and communicate together to safeguard specific parts of your home. Typically, the focus is on doorways and windows, where intruders can enter. However, you can also add extra protection in yards, by swimming pools, and near rooms storing valuables. A home security system will generally include:
- A control panel
- Sensors for the doors and windows
- An alarm
- Indoor and/or outdoor motion detectors and security cameras (optional)
- Security alarm notices for the doors to discourage break-ins
In essence, the control panel allows you to arm or disarm the system and gives you a space to enter your passcode when entering your home. The door and window sensors (and the cameras and motion detectors, if you have them) communicate with the control panel. If the signal is interrupted – by someone opening a window, for example – the alarm system emits a loud sound and the security system contacts the security company or local authorities.
Essentially, a security system protects you by guarding specific points of your home. Your windows and doors are generally guarded in this way and you can install motion sensors outside your children’s rooms or on the stairway. If anyone tries to enter your home while the alarm is activated, the alarm will sound.
4) What is home automation?
Home automation is a type of system that allows you to control your home’s devices using your mobile device. For example, with home automation you can turn your sprinklers and lights on and off using your cell phone or other device, no matter where you are.
A growing number of security systems allow you to control your security system from your phone or device. This can be a great safety feature, as you can get updates any time your alarm is activated – even if you’re at work. If you travel often or are away from home frequently, security systems with this feature can give you added peace of mind by letting you control your system and letting you get any security updates while you’re on the go.
5) What is up and coming in the security industry?
The security industry is always changing, but over the past few years the focus has been on smart homes, wireless technology, and non-mobile sensors. With smart homes and home automation becoming more popular, security companies are releasing new ways for customers to monitor their homes, check in on their homes, and adjust their system settings. Many now offer wireless systems and apps that let customers control their homes from mobile devices. The newest system even link mobile devices to home cameras, so homeowners can see what is happening in their home while there are away.
Another trend is that of creating systems to monitor an entire property with movement. Traditionally, home security systems have fixed motion sensors, cameras, and sensors. Newer technology allows for roaming security. For example, aerial surveillance using drones promises to let property owners monitor their homes using unmanned personal aircraft. At the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show, one company unveiled a smart home camera that roves over a house. Owners can use a mobile app to control the camera, essentially allowing users to check up on any part of their home.
Video is also being used in innovative ways. Some security systems have been testing iris authentication or face recognition technology so in the future homeowner might not need to enter passwords when arming or disarming their security systems. Other companies have been experimenting with voice activation, smart locks, and video doorbell systems that send video of who is standing on your doorstep when your doorbell rings. Some companies are even offering security cameras with advanced night vision technology so homeowners can record video at night with lots of detail.
6) How can I protect my home from flooding or fires?
When it comes to questions to ask about commercial security systems and home systems, many property owners are mostly worried about break-ins and burglary. However, home security systems can also protect you and your family from flood and fire.
Some security systems allow you to enjoy smoke monitoring, flood monitoring, and even carbon monoxide monitoring. Sensors in the system detect water, smoke, or carbon monoxide and activate an alarm if any of these are present in your home. This is crucial if you are away from home, since it gives you a chance to alert authorities so they can go to your home and extinguish the fire or deal with the emergency. This can help prevent extensive damage to your property and can save the lives of any pets you have.
7) What are common weak spots in my home that should be protected?
The first floor, and especially your first floor entranceways, are most vulnerable for burglary and break-ins. In fact, 81% of break-ins start with an entry on the first floor. About 34% of break-ins involve burglars coming in through the front door, while 23% enter through a window on the first floor and 22% enter through a rear door.
However, it does not mean your second floor is vulnerable. If you have bushes, trellises, trees, porches, or anything else a burglar can climb, your second-story doors and balcony windows can also be at risk. In addition, garages and basement windows can also provide access to your home and will need to be protected.
Many homeowners think about outside access only, but it can be a smart precaution to place motion sensors inside your home as well. If someone is able to enter through an unprotected window or is able to enter through some other way, motion detectors (especially on the stairs, outside of children’s rooms, and near any areas you store valuables) will help raise the alarm.
8) What are home security cameras used for?
Security cameras serve several functions:
- They act as a deterrent to burglars and other criminals
- They provide peace of mind
- They record all activity in a specific part of the property
- They can help capture non-criminal problems you want to resolve – such as predators on your property
- They can gather evidence if you want to press charges against someone for graffiti or other illegal acts that don’t involve breaking and entering
9) What types of alarms are there and how are they used?
Security systems have different types of alarms:
- High-decibel sound. Most home systems will emit a very loud sound when someone attempts to break in. If a system is also a smoke detection system or other system, the sound will also be activated when a specific threat is detected. The sound is intended to alert others in the area that something is wrong. In the event of a break-in, the loud sound is intended to scare off intruders.
- Two-way communication. Two-way communication alarms mean that a live operator addresses an intruder (or suspected intruder) over the intercom system. In the event that there is an emergency inside the home, homeowners can also use two-way information to get help from the security company.
- Law enforcement alarms. Many alarm companies will automatically contact emergency services if an alarm is tripped. For example, if the alarm detects an unauthorized entry through a window, the system will automatically place a call to law enforcement.
Homeowner alarms. Many alarm systems today will also send a text message or alert to the homeowner through their phone or mobile device, so the homeowner is aware of a potential problem at home. Often, this is in addition to another type of alarm.- Silent alarms. Although not as common with home systems, some home security alarms are silent. This type of alarm doesn’t alert an intruder that the security company is aware of the break-in. The purpose of this is that the security company can send personnel or law enforcement to the home to catch the intruder in the act. If a homeowner wants to press charges against all trespassers, catching them in this manner is usually preferable.
Now that you know more about home security systems, you may have a better idea of what questions to ask about home security systems when you speak to a security company.
What questions should I ask my security provider?
Once you have started looking into security systems and understand the basics, you can start contacting security companies and security services providers. By this point, you will know enough that you won’t simply be accepting any sales pitch. Instead, you will want to ask more specific questions, such as:
1) How much does a system cost?
Since there are so many security systems around, prices can vary widely. Average costs of $600-$1200 in 2013 were for setting up and installation of a new system and that year monthly service costs cost about $30, on average. However, monthly costs could be as much as $100 and in some cases installation and set up can cost many thousands of dollars if homeowners want additional features or a specific setup.
Of all the questions to ask security companies, many homeowners are most worried about cost. When comparing costs, however, be sure to ask the provider what is included in the cost. Ask for a custom quote and consider asking when prices have increased in the past so you can have a sense of how often that monthly bill will go up.
2) How long is the company’s average response time?
The longer the time, the more likely it is that a break-in may become dangerous or a fire or other emergency can cause harm. Look for a company offering a short response time. In general, look for response times of 60 seconds or less and ask to see verification in writing. How does the company know their response times? How often do they test? If you live in a remote area, you may want to ask if they can guarantee a specific response time or if your response time will be longer.
3) How long has this company been in business?
Look for a company that has experience. While some new security companies are very good, a company that has been around for a while likely has enough customers to support them, meaning they provide a good enough service to ensure customers keep coming back.
4) What accreditations do they have?
Look for a company associated with a national security association and a company that is licensed in your state. Call to double-check this information yourself. Also, double-check that the company is insured. Workers at the company will need to work in your home, and you want to ensure these employees are insured in case an injury or any damages occur.
5) What are the most valuable security devices?
Most security companies are very eager to talk about the systems and services they offer. After you have read about security systems yourself, you may want to ask the security company for their recommendations. They may have suggestions based on your concerns and the specific vulnerable points of your home.
6) Do they offer commercial and home services?
You may only want a home service, but a company offering business services too may be larger and may be more poised to offer a range of services and products. If you have a business, you may be able to save by having both your residential and company security systems installed and monitored by the same company. If your security company offers both residential and commercial services, you might want to prepare some questions to ask about business security systems. Even if you’re pretty sure you want a home system, you can help determine the level of knowledge and can learn more about your options by asking about both systems.
7) What are the costs?
Be sure to ask about the specific costs of any systems that interest you – including purchase, installation, monitoring, and hidden costs.
8) What are the warranties and guarantees offered?
What happens if there is a technical problem? Who will repair it and cover the costs? What happens if they system fails to protect you or you have to move? A good company will offer a comprehensive warranty and guarantee. Look for guarantees and warranties both from the manufacturer of the home security system and your security company.
9) What steps does the company take to keep me safer?
A good security company should be happy to answer this question and should have lots of steps they’re taking to keep you and your family safe. Perhaps the company has a high safety rating from a professional organization or runs background checks on all employees. Maybe they take an active part in staying up to date with the latest technology. Whatever it is, look for a company who can answer this question enthusiastically and with lots of detail. You want a business that takes your safety seriously.
10) Does the company use the latest technology?
When you install your home security system, you want the latest technology, especially since new models are released regularly. A quality company should be knowledgeable about the latest trends in the industry and should be able to prove they are using the latest and best devices. You may even want to ask about the process of updating the system. How often will you need to update? Will you get a discount for doing so? As more secure systems emerge, you will want to find a cost-effective way of upgrading and it can be easier if the same company stays up-to-date and is able to offer the latest systems.
Facts about Security Systems
Did you know…?
- A property without security is 2-3 times more likely to be targeted by a burglar
- In surveys, 85% of police officers polled said they believed security alarms help prevent burglaries
- 60% of burglary attempts involving a security-system-protected home are not successful
- It takes an average of 57 seconds for a burglar to break into a home
If you’d like to schedule a consultation to discuss your security needs, contact Lloyd Security. Our professionals are highly trained and experienced and we know all the security system tips and tricks to make your home as safe as possible. Give our friendly team a call today!