Does It Really Matter Whom I Buy My Security System From?”

Well, could it really make a difference? Here are a few things to think about:

1) Is the alarm company properly licensed as a low voltage company in your state & fully insured with liability & Workman's comp? (Have them send a fax copy of proof of insurance)

2) Will all workers (Including subcontractors) that may enter my home or business be covered by this insurance?

3) Are there any complaints registered with the Better Business Bureau regarding their work?

4) What professional organizations do they belong to?

5) Do they only give away “FREE” alarm systems or can you buy the system outright & have whomever you choose monitor it? Most security system companies don't make the majority of their profit from selling security systems; instead it comes from the monitoring contract. That is why they are so willing to give them away for "FREE". (I am not saying there is anything wrong with choosing a "FREE" system. In fact, depending on your circumstances, sometimes it just makes sense. However I just wanted you to be aware of this.)

6) Always ask if they offer the option to buy the system outright and monitor it without a contract.

7) Did you know that monitoring contracts can be so profitable that there are business plans written that are entirely based on simply buying and selling monitoring contracts? So the question is: You may know who is monitoring your home security system today...but who will be monitoring it tomorrow? There is a big difference between an authorized alarm dealer ....and just another marketing company. Marketing companies know just the right words on how to make an unbelievable offer on a home security system simply irresistible. But remember this, their goal is often to "quick flip" or sell your contract at a profit. So what kind of customer service do you think you will get down the road when you have a problem, or worse yet a break in?

So always ask up front...are you an authorized alarm dealer?

8) And , will you be selling my alarm monitoring contract in the future?

9) Who will be warranting my home security system?

10) How long is the warrantee? (A new security system should be warranted for a minimum of 12 months)

11) If there is a problem after the warrantee expires...whom do I call & how much will it cost to have a technician evaluate my problem?

12) When I call in for customer service issues...will I get to talk to a live person...or just a machine?

13) Can my new equipment be monitored by anybody...or is it "Proprietary equipment" (In other words, will the equipment ONLY work with their monitoring services only?)

14) Will my home be monitored by a "local" monitoring company...or a "National " one? (For a detailed article on "Local Verses National" monitoring see the link in the authors box of this article)

If they even hesitate for a moment... you may want to keep on looking for the right home security system company to work with.

F. Cheshire is a Security Alarm Consultant In Atlanta

Take the time to Learn how Security systems tie into a fully integrated Home Automation System