A home security system is an important way to keep your home and loved ones safe. When you consider that a home burglary occurs every 15 seconds nationwide, having the right system is more important than ever.
Well-placed exterior lighting and solid deadbolt locks can help reduce your odds of being a victim. However, the fact remains that most burglaries occur during daytime hours and a determined burglar can pick a lock in less than 60 seconds.
Homes without a security system tend to be targeted by burglars. Not only are homes that are equipped with a home security system a great deterrent, you may qualify for a discount on your home insurance.
Home Security System Features
The best way to protect your home from burglary or a hazard is with a layered approach. A layered home security system includes implementing more than one type of protection, including:
- Window and door sensors
- Alarmed window screens
- Motion sensors
- Glass break sensors
- Pressure mats
- Video monitoring
- Flood monitoring
- Carbon monoxide sensors
- Smoke and heat detectors
- Panic buttons
- Monitoring service
You may not find all of these features appealing or necessary. The best home security system is one that offers the features you want at a price you can afford.
Selecting The Best Security System Provider
Hiring the best home security system provider requires a bit of research. According to a recent article in Consumer Reports – a non-profit consumer advocate agency – the services offered by home security companies vary significantly. Since you have so many options, it’s best to make your own assessment. Here are a few steps you can take to compare providers:
1. Make a list of providers. Include small, local and large national companies.
2. Compile a list of important features. Eliminate companies from your list that do not offer all of the features on your list.
3. Research companies. Visit websites like the Better Business Bureau, Angie’s List and Yelp to read consumer reviews.
4. Get price quotes. Invite each of the providers on your list to your home and ask them to give you a quote.
Based on the quotes, you should be able to narrow your list to two or three providers. An important factor to consider when choosing a home security system is monitoring and customer service. Both should be friendly and efficient.
Beware Of Hidden Costs
Be on the lookout for hidden costs or pitfalls. Not all companies have these. For those who do, you need to be vigilant in finding them. Here are some examples of hidden costs:
1. Early termination fees. Most companies require a contract for a certain amount of years, especially if discounts, free equipment or free installation are offered. Some companies may assess an early termination fee, even if you move out of the house before the contract has expired.
2. Salesperson promises. Unscrupulus sales people will make promises to entice you. Make sure all promises are included in your contract. If they are not, you could find yourself short-changed, with no recourse.
3. Security Company Liability Limits. If your home is damaged or broken into, your home security system company may be liable for a portion of your losses. However, sometimes the liability limits can be much lower than the deductible for your homeowners insurance, thus costing you.
Do Not Rely Exclusively On Your Home Security System
While a home security system can alert authorities of an intruder or a hazard, it pays to be take additional precautionary steps. This is where layered security is helpful in minimizing loss. Here are things you can do to keep your home safe:
1. Always lock doors and windows when you are not home
2. Keep your home security system armed when you are not home or are sleeping.
3. Use the signs and stickers provided by your home security system, they can work as a strong deterrent.
4. Keep your front porch and landscaping well kept, so burglars won’t have a hiding place.
5. Before you go on vacation, submit a temporary stop mail request to the post office and make arrangements with a neighbor to take out and return your garbage cans on collection day.
6. Have lights on timers.
For more tips on protecting your home, check out Protect Your Fort Lauderdale Home From Burglary. If you have questions about buying or selling a luxury home in Fort Lauderdale, contact us!
